PRIVATE party pods are the latest pandemic-proof measure at a popular pub in a picturesque village.

The Fox Inn pub in Denchworth, near Wantage, has a glittering new collection of exclusive drinking dens just in time for the chilly autumn weather.

The pub on Hyde Road underwent a makeover and now 'the great British local' features eight four-seater pods and two six-seater ones in the marquee, and two four-seaters outside.

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Since the pub reopened in the first week of July, landlord Stephen Davidson revealed he has received thousands of requests for the party pods.

Explaining how the pub has dealt with the new Covid-19 measures he commented: "We have been fully booked every night and every lunchtime since we reopened.

"Candles on the tables make it cosy and we have small table top heaters if people want them after they have eaten when chatting.

"One of the biggest things I have got a buzz from is all the emails of thanks that we have created an environment people feel safe in as a lot of them are still scared.

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"We are very proud of what we have done and what we are still doing to keep ahead of the game and ensure The Fox has a future."

Mr Davidson also revealed that unlike a big portion of the hospitality industry takings at the Fox Inn were up by 70 per cent in August and 65 per cent in September compared with last year.

The publican added: "We are doing everything we can to keep the momentum going."