BUILDING work started this week on a £130,000 revamp of The Dog & Gun in Apperley Bridge.

Yorkshire-based pub operator Star Pubs & Bars is aiming to create a warm and welcoming family and dog-friendly top-quality local.

The pub will be closed for three weeks, re-opening mid-November in time for the festive season with three new jobs created on the back of the investment.

The changes will see a new team – Stuart and Claire Mclean - take on the management of the pub.

The couple will also continue to run The Royal Oak on Stony Lane in Eccleshill, which benefited from an outside investment by them in 2020.

Funds are being spent on a top-to-toe interior redecoration and a complete overhaul of the exterior including the creation of a covered and heated terrace seating 40 people.

Outside, the dated-looking pub is being redecorated in cream and brown with signage in gold lettering and the frosted glass removed allowing passers-by to see the warm and welcoming interior, which will feature new electric heating.

A large new HDTV is being installed outside in time for the World Cup. Inside, the pub is being given a more modern look with painted panelling and exposed stone walls, new carpet and renovated timber flooring.

The Dog & Gun will start serving coffee and daytime cakes and snacks, as they aim to make it an ideal place to stop off for people walking along the nearby canal.

Stewart and Claire’s plans for the pub include a regular quiz, live sports on TV, and if there is enough interest locally will look to put on live entertainment.

Claire said: "We are thrilled to be taking on The Dog & Gun and introducing the new look pub to the community.

"Its dated exterior had discouraged people from going in for a drink in recent years.

"It’s smarter look and broader choice of premium drinks – including cocktails - will encourage more people to enjoy a drink in walking distance rather than have to travel for a quality experience.”

Jon Kelly, Star Pubs & Bars area manager, said: "There has been a lot of new housing built locally over last the last two to three years and roadworks outside to contend with.

"This investment will take The Dog & Gun to a whole new level and give new and existing residents a great place to come together.

"Stuart and Claire have done a great job with The Royal Oak, embedding it at the heart of the community. They are an ideal team for The Dog & Gun."

 

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