A popular pub in the heart of Marlow looks set to be renamed The Butcher’s Tap after it is taken over.

Plans to make changes to the Grade II listed O'Donoghues on Spittal Street were given the green light by Wycombe District Council in January this year, but a new application for an awning and signs has now been submitted.

The drawings indicate that the much-loved town centre pub will be rebranded and called The Butcher’s Tap.

It was originally suggested that it could be called The Butcher's Hook.

The plans also finally confirm the long-term rumours that Tom Kerridge is behind the takeover – with the celebrity chef’s name set to be plastered across the front window in gold letters.

The chef and television presenter, who lives in the town with his wife and son, was widely believed to be behind the plans, but his representatives remained tight-lipped when approached by the Marlow Free Press.

The Butcher’s Tap will be Tom’s third venture in the town, following huge successes at West Street eateries The Hand and Flowers and The Coach.

The new name and signs will give the pub a “fresh new image” and will be in keeping with the area, according to planners.