VILLAGERS have raised their glasses to a couple who are set to re-open a popular pub which has been closed for nearly two years.

Residents of Husthwaite, near Easingwold, are celebrating the news that their local pub, formerly known as The Blacksmith's Arms, will be opening again early next month.

The pub building has been unoccupied since the business closed and was starting to fall into disrepair.

But now, Robin and Nicky Jaques have stepped in to restore the historic building to its former glory - albeit with a new name. The former landlords of the nearby Fauconberg Arms Hotel, Coxwold, have re-named the business The Roasted Pepper.

Mr Jaques said: "The village has been really enthusiastic with people calling in to see the developments and changes as work has gone on."

Parish council chairman, Carol Munford, said the couple would receive overwhelming support in the village.

"It's lovely to think that we will have a village pub once again," she said. "There was a plan to convert it to housing but a petition collected 300 names of people who wanted to see it remain as a pub. The building needed money spent on it and we are glad they are doing so. The parish council backs them wholeheartedly."

The Roasted Pepper has been completely refurbished and now boasts new furniture, more space and patio seating.