THE landlord of the Hayhurst Arms in Bostock Green has been celebrating with his staff this week as the pub opened its doors to customers for the first time.

Chester-based pub company Brunning and Price acquired the lease for the social club in the village after it shut its doors in 2012.

The company has spent the last six months transforming the property, connecting the former social club to some historic barns at the rear of the building.

Landlord Chris Beswick said: "It’s hugely rewarding to see how well it has turned out.

”It’s a very handsome building with character in spades, warm and cosy in the winter, but light and airy when the sun shines, and over looking the village green we have a large terrace and gardens which will be a fine place for a spot of lunch with friends and family.”

Village resident Sally-Anne Rogers, added: "I was absolutely delighted to see the Hayhurst Arms spring to life after months of meticulous renovation. Everyone is thrilled to have somewhere so inviting to regularly catch up with each other; manager Chris, wife Louise and baby Noah have already been adopted into the community.”

Henry Brooks, from The Tatton Estate added "Congratulations to Chris, his crew and all at Brunning and Price for the triumph that is the Hayhurst Arms.

"Brilliant food, great atmosphere and already at the heart of the Bostock community – welcome from all at the Tatton Estate!"

“Some 40 local people have joined the crew,” Chris said.

"And we’ve already been made to feel really welcome by the village. It’s very friendly round here and I know we’re going to be really happy to have settled in such a lovely place.”