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

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

A total of six new jobs have also been created as part of the scheme.

Having previously run a pub in Kent, Christopher moved to the Dales with his partner, Louise Jones, earlier this year in search of a new challenge.

And as soon as he saw The Bolton Arms he knew he’d found it.

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 of The Bolton Arms has involved a full internal refurbishment including new flooring, furniture and fixtures and fittings. The pub’s toilets and large function room have also been improved and upgraded. Outside, the beer garden has been given a spruce up with new signage and lighting.

The new-look Bolton Arms will serve a range of freshly-prepared food seven days a week, alongside a good selection of wines, spirits and beers, including Black Sheep and Wensleydale Brewery’s Semer Water ale. The pub is also proud to be serving Heineken Extra Cold on draught and keeping it local by stocking Masons Yorkshire Gin.

There will be regular entertainment including live music twice a week.

Christopher, who is a member of the British Institute of Innkeeping, is welcoming walkers and dog-owners and has even laid on a selection of snacks and treats for customers’ four-legged friends. The pub has a Pooch Portrait area, complete with dog selfie frame, and will be selling dog bandanas in aid of the Dogs Trust charity.

Punch development and training manager Rebecca Davies said: “This has been an extensive yet sensitive renovation to significantly improve the facilities at The Bolton Arms, while retaining all of its charm and character.

“I’m sure that customers will be delighted with the changes and the warm welcome on offer from Christopher and his team.”