A PUB'S new paintwork has left community leaders reaching for the rule book.

Town councillors in Leyburn have referred the town's King's Head to Richmondshire District Council after the pub's cream frontage was painted grey.

The pub is in a conservation area and members of Leyburn Town Council felt the new colour was inappropriate.

However, landlady Carole Ferguson, who has run the pub since January, has defended the change.

She said: "The boss and I decided to refresh the outside as we are planning to refurbish the pub. We decided on the colour between us and thought it looked rather cheerful. It wasn't a cheap job and we have tried to make it look attractive.

“Many of our customers have said how fabulous it looks, especially with our floral display.”

Others in the town have also spoken out in favour of the new look.

Former town councillor Andrew Waites pointed out three nearby properties were painted a similar shade of grey.

The Thirteen Restaurant, in Railway Street, was also painted grey without complaint, he added.

He said: "I was incensed that Leyburn Town Council have made a fuss about the new colour of the King's Head.

“Previously it was horrible cream colour and now with the flowers and hanging baskets it looks great.

“Why did they not comment on all the other businesses that have recently been painted grey why just refer the King's Head?”

Former landlord of the Kings Head David Close now runs the nearby Golden Lion and likes the new decor.

He said: "I think it looks really good and makes Grove Square look very attractive.”

Martin Crowson of the volunteer-run tourist information office also approves of the new colour scheme.

He said: “How great to see that corner of the town smartened up. I like the colour - it looks fresh and is not at all inappropriate.

“We wish them all the best in their efforts to run a successful business.”

Richmondshire District Council said planning permission was not required to paint the outside of a building.

A spokesman said informal discussions with Leyburn Town Council had taken place about the work, but no formal complaint was made.