A PUB near the route of the Tour De Yorkshire has reopened to the community after an extensive refurbishment following the investment of £200,000.

The White Bear in Bedale reopened to customers on Sunday, December 9.

The pub dates back to the 17th century and has undergone several renovations but cash most recently spent on the pub has also meant several hotel rooms will open in Spring next year.

The pub which is on the route of the annual Tour De Yorkshire bicycle race has proven popular with locals before, but following its biggest refurbishment yet, it is hoped that the White Bear will prove to be the ultimate destination for fans viewing the race.

The pub has also been refurbished just in time for Christmas by community pub company Admiral Taverns who have refitted the location inside and out and included fires lining the pub’s interior as well as a dedicated space for live music performances.

Michelle Jones pub licensee of the White Bear who has also been a returning customer to the pub since the 1980s said under her direction, she hopes the pub will create an even broader offer for customers and a family-friendly atmosphere.

She said: “I’m delighted to have taken on the White Bear which looks fantastic following the refurbishment.

“I’ve always thought the pub has serious potential and it’s brilliant to have the opportunity to create this for the local community.”

On its opening night customers from the town and surrounding villages were welcomed back along with a live performance from female vocalist Krishan Jade.

To coincide with its relaunch the pub has introduced a new menu available from noon to 7pm every day with servings of hotpots, burgers of the day and even a ‘taster board’ with varying types of cask ales.

The pub also joins over 840 pubs owned under the the Admiral Taverns group.

Gary Stafford business development manager at Admiral Taverns said: “Michelle and Pete have done a fantastic job at the White Bear and have turned it back into a real asset for the community, one which people will be proud to come back to time and time again and bring their friends.

“We wish Michelle and Pete all the best for the future and I can’t recommend paying them a visit enough.”

The 2019 Tour De Yorkshire which will narrowly pass the White Bear will begin on May 2 and finish on May 5.

Alongside Bedale other Yorkshire locations Barnsley, Bridlington, Doncaster, Halifax, Leeds, Selby and Scarborough will be on the route.