A VILLAGE pub has reopened after being closed for almost six years.

The Horseshoe Inn, in West Rounton, near Northallerton, has opened its doors following a refurbishment by new owners Stan and Ann Taylor.

The 18th century, Grade II-listed building closed following the illness and subsequent death of its previous owner, Martha Evelyn Hoare.

It had been in her family for almost 100 years, having previously been owned by her father.

Mrs Hoare, who ran the pub well into her nineties, was still using the old wooden till found in the premises by the incumbent owners.

Another interesting feature of the pub is the large wroughtiron horseshoe fastened above the door.

Mr and Mrs Taylor, who live nearby in a converted Methodist church, decided to breathe new life into the premises.

Mr Taylor, a retired businessman, said: “I like a challenge and the village needed a pub to give it life. Everybody is welcome and I hope it will be wellused by the local community and visitors.”

The pub interior is designed by the couple’s son, Mark, who is the licence-holder. It has open beamed ceilings, boasts two stone fireplaces from local stonemason Bob Pilling, a light oak-panelled bar and grey slate floors.

Mark Taylor said: “This is a centuries-old pub with a modern look which I hope will appeal to customers old and new.”

The Horseshoe Inn already has darts and dominoes teams registered to play in local leagues and there are plans to hold quiz nights and other events.

Food should be available shortly and the pub offers an upstairs function room which can be used – daytime and evening – for a variety of events.