AN INSPIRED duo have applied their magic modernising touch to a traditional Darlington pub.

New owners Colin Chapman and Carley Woods have revamped The Crown Inn, an 18th century pub set in the quiet village of Manfield.

They took over from Peter and Karen Hynes and re-opened the inn - which was the Darlington Camra country pub of the year from 2002 to 2008 - on Friday.

They have introduced coffee, cakes and snacks to the pub, while preserving its renowned craft ales.

Mr Chapman said: "We have done as little as possible. We have just added a few bits here and there, as it was a bit out of touch. It needed a little something extra."

Mr Chapman and Ms Woods formerly ran The Britannia in Darlington for several months before shutting its doors for good on November 14.

Mr Chapman said: "It's a massive difference going from pretty much in the town centre next to the busy road to a village pub. We seem to have fitted in and everyone seems really happy with the little changes we've put in place."

He added: "Extending the opening hours seems to have attracted a younger crowd, and there are quite a lot of people excited that we are open during lunch time."

There are also plans to open a small convenience store and introduce an extended menu at the pub.