Blacksmiths bounces back (From Gazette & Herald)

Blacksmiths bounces back

A TRADITIONAL village pub is welcoming back its customers after a £120,000 facelift.

The Blacksmith Arms pub in Cayton has been undergoing a three-week refurbishment, but licensee Shelia Johnson is now back behind the bar.

The refurbishment project at the Punch Taverns-owned pub has given it a complete internal and external makeover, with a new chef serving up quality pub food from the extended menu.

Shelia, who moved to the pub with her daughter Ellie in October last year, is pleased to have the pub open for business once more.

"We are really looking forward to the summer months ahead," said Sheila.

"It has been unfortunate that the pub had to close while the work took place - but we are sure people will enjoy the new layout and agree that it's been well worth the wait.

"Initial reaction has been very positive and business was booming over the Bank Holiday weekend."

Shelia is hoping to attract people from Cayton and the surrounding area who may not have visited the pub before, either those looking for a good pub meal prepared by the new chef or a place to relax with a pint of beer or glass of wine.

She added: "This is our first pub venture and we are glad to be getting people back here to enjoy quality food and drink in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Jonathan Blackmore, business relationship manager for Punch, added: "This investment puts the Blacksmiths Arms in a great position to attract new customers from surrounding area to try the new menu and enjoy a really friendly pub atmosphere."

Updated: 13:19 Wednesday, June 22, 2005