Five jobs are to be created at a village pub which is undergoing a £250,000 upgrade by its new tenants.

The Punch Taverns-owned Bay Horse on Keighley Road, Cowling, is closed for five weeks while the work is carried out.

It has been taken on by new leaseholder Pickles Pubs, which operates six Yorkshire hostelries, and which is investing in new decor and facilities.

Managing director Neil Pickles said: “There will be major work conducted throughout in a traditional style to create a cosy and homely feel. We will also be introducing a new menu featuring a selection of freshly-cooked dishes and traditional Sunday roasts.

“The plans look fantastic. We want to take it back to the good old days and restore it to its former glory for the local community to enjoy. I look forward to seeing the end result.”

Punch Taverns’ partnership development manager, Ian Lester, said: “It’s great that Punch can invest in its properties and we essentially want to reposition the Bay Horse as one of the leading pubs that can provide great drinks and quality food for residents in Cowling and the surrounding areas with something for everyone.”