RESIDENTS in Starcross have received a welcome Christmas present with confirmation the A379 will be open again from December 23.

The main road through the village has been closed for months while work is carried out on the Driftwood Pub.

Ongoing delays have prompted frustration for businesses and villagers as diversions have sent traffic through residential streets.

Now Devon County Council has confirmed the road will finally be open.

But work will continue on the building.

County councillor Alan Connett explained: ‘The remaining works can be carried out using only a footway scaffold, which removes the need for the current full closure.

‘The scaffold licence will be extended for a 12‑week period.

‘This will allow the cob contractor to complete the structural elements, plaster and render. Once this phase is finished, a decorator will be brought in to complete the final works.’

Throughout the period of the final work, the footpath will remain open.

Cllr Connett added: ‘I’m sure this news will be welcomed and I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding.’