THE new landlady of a Stourbridge pub says taking it over is her "dream job."

Helen Penny is running the Garibaldi Inn on Cross Street in the Old Quarter.

The 42-year-old mum-of-three left her job as PA to the principal at Bristnall Hall Academy in Oldbury to take over the reins.

Stourbridge News: A warm welcome awaits at the Garibaldi A warm welcome awaits at the Garibaldi (Image: Handout)

She said: "I visited the pub a few times with friends who live round the corner. I love the pub and it's in a great area.

"It's my dream - I've always wanted to run a pub and this pub has great potential.

"I want to get live music back in - that's a big thing for me - I know it's in a residential area so we will be very respectful.

"The neighbours have been amazing - they have been popping in and saying hello and have been really supportive.

"There's a lovely local community.

"I have a lot of passion and enthusiasm for this pub - I just want people to know we're here and that it's a lovely place to come with a great atmosphere."

Helen now lives above the Marstons pub with her twin daughters aged 16 and son, aged 19.

She will introduce real ales next month - starting a Monday Ale Club providing discounts.

Stourbridge News: The pub on Cross Street The pub on Cross Street (Image: Handout)

There will be live bands on the last Friday of every month until 10.30pm. This Friday Chris Chambers is performing. From next week there will be a quiz night every Thursday and free pool on Tuesdays.

Wednesdays will be acoustic free for alls with people asked to bring their own instruments.

Helen is also setting up a pool team and a darts team.

Its function room, which holds 80 people, is available for hire.

The Garibaldi is open from noon till 11pm Sunday to Thursday; and from noon till midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.