A PUB has been given a £126,000 make over after a micro brewery took the reins.

The Castle Tavern pub and bed and breakfast in Richmond Market Place is in the hands of Richmond Brewing Company and pub operator Punch, which together already run the Bolton Arms in Leyburn.

Chris Wallace and Peter Loft, who own Richmond Brewing Company, will use the venue as its brewery tap, also offering accommodation, home-cooked food and local ales.

The pub is run by managers Kevin Dodd and Lis Rice.

Mr Wallace said: “When we set out on our brewing venture, our aim was to offer a quality pint at a reasonable price.

“The partnership with Punch has allowed us to create a shop window for our product which we hope the people of Richmond will enjoy.”

The traditional real ale pub and has been redecorated throughout, and new outside lighting and signage has been installed.

Ms Rice said: “By working in partnership with Punch, we’ve been able to give the Castle Tavern a well-deserved boost, creating a home-from-home environment for our regulars and visiting tourists alike.

“The pub has always been popular with local rugby supporters and getting the refurbishment complete in time for the start of the Six Nations was important to us.

“We will be showing all the games and hopefully, the fans will be able to celebrate our new look alongside celebrating their favourite team victories.

“Thanks to the investment from Punch we have a pub to be proud of.”