NEW landlord of The Stallards hopes to breathe new life into the pub in the Newtown area of Trow- bridge, after putting his own distinctive mark on it by carrying out a £15,000 refurbishment.

Kevin Christodoulou, who also runs The Tennis Court pub in Bristol, persuaded Four County Inns not to dispose of The Stallards after seeing potential in making the pub a successful part of the local community.

The pub, which is over 200 years old, was bought and refurbished by Milk Street Brewery in Frome in 2010 under the management of Steven Large, who continued to operate it on his own after Milk Street withdrew in May.

However, new tenant Mr Christodoulou reopened the pub three weeks ago to rave reviews from the public, after refurbishing the ‘dingy’ interiors and putting in a pool table, darts and a jukebox.

Mr Christodoulou, 39, said: “I saw the potential years ago, but at the time I was busy running another pub.

“Although we have only been open a few weeks, old and new customers are amazed at the difference.

“There was nothing like a pool table or darts for entertainment before, so I’ve addressed that. It was also quite dingy and had black walls and a partition that was blocking light coming in from the windows.

“I’ve made it more welcoming by painting the walls with a brighter colour and we have taken down the partition to let more light in.

“Customers have said it is a great improvement.

“It is currently just me and one other member of staff, with my boyfriend also helping out behind the bar when he is here.

“I’m very pleased with the way it has been received and I do enjoy seeing the pub being turned around.”

Mr Christodoulou added that there will be live music in the pub on Saturday evenings, while The Stallards will also be serving freshly cooked food on Fridays and Saturdays to begin with.

He said: “We are very welcoming and invite anyone to come and enjoy the new-look pub. I want it to become a prominent part of the community as it is clear from the feedback I’ve received that people don’t want to lose it.”