A North Yorkshire pub has a new owner and new look following a £500,000 revamp after its former landlord and lady of 22 years stepped down.
The Golden Lion pub in Romanby, Northallerton, said farewell to husband and wife landlords Doug and Pearl Hall earlier this year after serving the community for more than two decades.
Now Ben Doherty has taken the reins at the pub, which has also had an almost £500,000 refurbishment.
Mr Doherty said: "Doug and Pearl have left an incredible legacy.
"For 22 years, they've poured their heart and soul into this pub, creating something that means so much to both locals and visitors alike.
"My commitment is to build on those strong foundations, investing in the pub's future while retaining everything people know and love about it.”
The pub, which reopened on June 30, has a refreshed bar, new furniture throughout and upgraded sound and television systems.
The beer garden has been overhauled with a shelter added so it can be used year-round.
A new menu promises pub classics combined with seasonal flavours, including stacked burgers, lasagne and Sunday roasts.
The Echo told in May how Doug, 80, and Pearl, 67, took over the boozer in April 2004, but had decided now was the time to retire.
Doug said at the time: "I'm 80 years of age, and I'm not getting any younger.
"We can't wait to retire and spend some more time to ourselves. Running a pub has been fantastic, but every minute of the day is taken up with it.
"After 22 years, it's going to be so difficult to say goodbye to this place and the regulars, but it feels like the right time."
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Punch Pubs & Co operations manager, Tony Iles, added: “This investment is about ensuring the pub remains a vibrant place for the community to come together.
"The improvements we’ve made will help us deliver an even better experience for our guests, while staying true to the spirit of the pub and the legacy Doug and Pearl leave behind.
"I’m thrilled to be working alongside Ben and the team and excited to see what the future brings.”
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