ONE of the the most well-known pubs in the Yorkshire Dales has appointed its first-ever hospitality manager.

The Marton Arms country inn and restaurant in Thornton-in-Lonsdale has recruited James Horton - always known as Jimmy - for the role, to handle the smooth running of the pub as its busy spring and summer tourist season gets underway.

Marton Arms co-owner Heather Dawson said that Jimmy arrived at the pub with a wealth of ‘front of house’ experience gained in Yorkshire establishments.

She explained: “Since we took on the Marton Arms two years ago we’ve been delighted that it has grown in popularity and realise that it’s time now to appoint someone to work alongside Liam Law and the rest of the team.

“We have a good local following and regular dining clientele, and with the tourist season getting underway again we will benefit from a skilled professional to build on the solid foundations we’ve established.”

The pub’s location near Ingleton has long made the Marton Arms popular with walkers, cyclists and the camping fraternity.

Heather added that Jimmy’s role will be to ensure that the pub’s reputation for hospitality will continue to excel for this wide-ranging mix of customers, as well as continuing to attract those with a liking for fine dining.

Jimmy said that he is looking to develop the ‘field to fork’ ethos of the business.

He explained: “I’m thrilled that our beef is reared in the foothills of Ingleborough by farming friends.

“We are invested in every step of the animals’ life - from happy and fulfilled life grazing in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales to the time it ultimately arrives on the customer’s plate.

“We know that the animal has lived a contented life and has been raised responsibly by people who share our passion for fine local produce and sustainable farming.

“We take great pride in all our locally sourced produce and the fact that we are able to provide 100 per cent traceability.”

He added that he was also looking forward to overseeing the ongoing refurbishment of the Marton’s bedrooms and function suite.