One of Stoke-on-Trent's oldest pubs has been stripped of its iconic frontage due to safety reasons.

The Jovial Foresters Inn on Marsh Street South in Hanley is more than 100 years old, however the render which made it special has been removed.

It is understood that the render from the building started falling on the pavement causing a health and safety issue.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council say they were left with no choice due to lack of action by the owner.

Rubber Soul Records owner Robert Barrs, aged 49 said: "I obviously trade here and the amount of people that use to stop and take a picture of it, because it's historical, it's one of the oldest pubs, I'm led to believe, in the city.

"I understand they had to do something because it wasn't safe and I think they might have had trouble tracing the owner but the amount of visitors we used to get down here was unbelievable."

In a statement the city council said they are exploring legal options and the owner of the building has been served with a dangerous structures notice.

The Jovial Foresters Inn is more than 100 years old. (Google)

Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing and planning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "Due to the lack of action on behalf of the owner after being served with a Dangerous Structures Notice following a review of the building, the city council had no choice but to carry out works to remove the loose render and secure the front elevation of the building. These costs will be recovered from the owner.

"Our officers had no alternative but to remove the unique rendered finish due to the poor condition of the site and the unacceptable risk to any persons on the footpath.The condition of the building remains the responsibility of the owner.

"We are exploring legal options and in the meantime will continue to monitor the condition of the building."