A COUPLE who successfully ran a pub in Derby have refurbished a Pontnewynydd pub after it closed over a year ago.

Paul and Lyn Hancock took on their first pub together in Derby, but after the lease was up after six years, they searched the UK looking for their next project.

Mrs Hancock explained that when they came across The Bridgend Inn in Pontnewynydd she loved the quirkiness of the building and saw it as a great opportunity for them to put their stamp on a pub of their own.

She said: “We wanted to save a pub from closure and this pub fitted the bill having closed in October 2012.

“We have turned it back into a community asset once again.”

The couple invested £25,000 into refurbishing the pub including creating a new catering kitchen, extending the bar and decorating throughout.

It officially opened on Friday and 50 people joined them for a celebratory drink.

Mrs Hancock, 44, who has a background in bar work will take charge of the front of house, while Mr Hancock, 50, a trained chef, will run the kitchen.

Mrs Hancock added: “The opening went really well and the feedback we had was really positive.

“We will use our experience to make it a success and hope to take on staff when we are busier.”

The pub is offering traditional pub food such as steak and ale pie and fish and chips for an average price of £7.95.

They will also be taking Christmas meal party bookings in the run up to Christmas with set menus available.

For more information call 01495 618870.