A YEAR has passed since a memorable visit to the Slug and Lettuce, so Pub Spy decided the time was right for another try.

Last autumn Pub Spy enjoyed a meal during a Saturday morning so this time I thought I'd pop in a little later on a Saturday.

But I realised that had immediately backfired on me as I walked in at 6pm, with every table taken and a massive queue for the bar.

A birthday party was in full swing and, as it was a Saturday, the DJ was sure to entertain the revellers.

After hanging round awkwardly for a few minutes, Pub Spy made the decision to abandon the trip and enjoy a quiet Sunday lunch at The Cross watering hole instead.

On my return at around noon I was met with a far more easy going atmosphere, with staff finishing up the cleaning.

Without the crowds I was able to see the pub has hardly changed this past year. It still has the Harry Potter-style interior, complete with spiral staircases and stained glass windows, but for some reason it seemed a little brighter this time round.

Sometimes it is easy to forget the venue used to be a church as such a good job has been done converting it.

Pub Spy went for a simply fish and chips meal and sensibly selected a Coke Zero as I was driving, and was quickly served. Friendly staff asked me which table I would like and Pub Spy chose a comfy looking one in the corner.

Last year it took 12 minutes to deliver and this year it was even quicker, the food arriving at my table within 10 minutes.

Just like a year ago salt and pepper were already sat ready on the table for me, and I tucked in. The meal was well cooked, and I couldn't argue with the size of the cod. The only slight disappointment was the small portion of chips, which were also sized only a little bigger than McDonald's.

The meal was served in a sort of metal net tray. Now call Pub Spy old fashioned, but what happened to a good old plate.

To be fair though the meal cost £9.99, and the pint of Coke cost £2.85, so for £12.84 you have to say you get good value for money.

During my visit families came and went, in contrast to the young club-going crowd enjoying two-for-one cocktails I'd seen the night before.

I always think its a sign of a good establishment if it is able to switch between a day and night venue with ease.

Another good sign is well-maintained toilets and despite the obviously busy Saturday night hours before I was impressed as they were clean.

A year ago I was little harsh on the meal prices as there are good deals to be found including a cheaper lunchtime menu. Although I didn't have a drink on this occasion I know pints can be pricey (more than £4.50 for some) but on the other hand the chain does offer plenty of choice.

So what can I say a year on? The pub remains a good location whether its for a night out or to enjoy a quiet daytime meal, and there is good customer service.

And the location is always impressive, somehow able to make an old church feel modern. More than just a chain pub, Pub Spy was impressed with the Slug.