A FRESH chapter is beginning for an historic Dales pub and its new publican.

The 18th century Bolton Arms in Leyburn has re-opened following a major £160,000 joint investment by pub company Punch and new publican Christopher Orme.

Having previously run a pub in Kent, Mr Orme moved to the Dales with his partner, Louise Jones, earlier this year in search of a new challenge and found The Bolton Arms.

He said: “It is such an imposing and majestic building that I fell in love with the pub at first sight.

“It was a little run down and in need of some TLC but I could see it had huge potential.”

The renovation has involved a full internal refurbishment including new flooring, furniture and fixtures and fittings.

The toilets and large function room have also been improved, while the beer garden has been given a spruce up.

Mr Orme is welcoming dog-owners and has even laid on a selection of snacks and treats for customers’ four-legged friends.

Six new jobs have been created.