A taste of Christmas past is on the menu as a famous city hotel undergoes a major revival.

Staff at The George Hotel, Burslem, are busily preparing for their first Christmas since the historic venue was bought by a local businessman and revamped.

Visitors to party nights will be able to enjoy dancing in The George's palatial ballroom which boasts the only sprung wooden dancefloor at any hotel in the area.

And The George has employed a new head chef to ensure diners experience high quality Chistmas fayre.

The George, at the heart of Burslem town centre, has a wealth of history and features in the work of Potteries born literary giant Anold Bennett.

Jean McWilliam joined the team as assistant manager early this year and is working hard to return it to its former glory.

She said: "The George Hotel is possibly the area's most famous venue and has links with Arnold Bennett and the history of pottery manufacture.

"We plan to turn the clock back, repositioning the George at the heart of local life.

"We have revamped our Sunday lunch service, host big band nights, and are planning a memorable Christmas for visitors."

Bookings are now being taken for party nights in December - telephone the George Hotel on 01782 577544 to secure a table.

Diners can also book for Christmas Day lunch, Boxing Day lunch, and to welcome the New Year in with a Gala Ball.

The reborn George has now become a popular venue for marriage ceremonies and  wedding parties with bookings taken all year round.

Ms McWiliam said that the hotel had plans to launch cabaret nights, antique and ceramics events and wedding fairs. It also plans to become a conference venue of choice for the North Staffordshire business community.

Regular events include dancing in the ballroom to a big band on the second Monday of each month and Northern Soul nights on the first Friday of each month.