ANOTHER of the borough's favourite venues is set to return after lockdown.

But no-one could accuse The Lounge, in Ramsbottom, of keeping a low profile during the pandemic.

Chefs Andrew Robinshaw and Ian McDonald flew the flag for the Prince Street eaterie on Channel 4's Bake Off: The Professionals, competing against top-flight kitchens from across the UK.

The pair narrowly missed out on a place in the heats for the show - but not before wowing the judges with their down-to-earth takes on sweets and sweetmeats.

Their upside-down pineapple cake was "exquisite", according to Cherish Finden and her compadre Benoit Blin was won over by their technical expertise early on.

Andrew is now head chef at The Bird at Birtle and Ian has a similar post at The Chocolate Cafe.

Plans are now in place for The Lounge to reopen fully on Wednesday for the first time - but they have a couple of surprises up their sleeves.

A spokesman said: "We're looking forward to welcoming all our lovely customers back.

"We will also be welcoming a selection of live acts at the weekend, so you can enjoy some great music while you relax."

The owners are also making a play for a new breed of clientele.

In future the venue will be dog-friendly, they say, to capitalise on East Lancs' walking tradition.