A FAMILY-led bistro has welcomed a new manager to its ranks as it continues to grow in popularity.

New manager of Rory’s Bar in Malton, Lauren Thackray-Puente, is owner Rory Queen’s niece and has moved from Spain to help run the bar alongside her uncle and his partner, Jackie Scott.

“This is a bit of a career change for me,” said Lauren, who has spent the past five years living in Spain and working as a singer. “I am really looking forward to it.”

Rory, who opened the bar on December 12, 2012, after giving up a 14-year career as a car salesman, said the business has continued to thrive and serves 70 to 140 meals a day and employs 19 local staff.

He said: “We feel very lucky to have such loyal and wonderful customers.”