Pub chain giant, J D Wetherspoon, has this afternoon confirmed that it has acquired the Old Palladium, in Midsomer Norton.

A spokesperson for the chain, which has over 920 outlets and is famous for its low prices, said that the site would need planning and licensing and as yet has no on site or opening dates. The projected development cost is £2 million and would employ up to 45 staff.

Wetherspoon spokesman, Eddie Gershon, said: "We are pleased to have acquired a site in Midsomer Norton.

"Our aim is to open a Wetherspoon pub in the town, however, we will have to wait to see if planning and licensing permission is granted."

More in next week's Journal on this story.