A RURAL hotel and popular eatery that closed earlier this year due to the financial impact of the Covid pandemic is set to reopen, with an experienced businesswoman at the helm and the promise of the creation of up to 16 job opportunities.

Kirsty Ridge, the managing director of INNO Hospitality Collective, which launched earlier this year, has been recruiting for staff as she prepares the grand reopening of The Tennant Arms.

The hotel and bar, in Kilnsey, closed in September this year after the previous owners struggled to recover from the crippling and damaging effects of the pandemic.

Now Kirsty, who already oversees the operation of six venues across two businesses, is set to breathe new life into the venue with ambitious plans for its future.

She said: “As soon as I heard about The Tennant Arms, I had an immediate feeling it was the right venue for the INNO Hospitality Collective.

“Everything about it, from its location to decor and the esteem with which it’s held in the community made it so appealing.

“It feels wonderful to be reopening a venue that is loved by so many and we will be looking to build upon the great reputation it had achieved before sadly falling victim to the pandemic.

“Creating new opportunities for local communities is something I am passionate about, so to be able to provide employment is great. We’re really looking forward to becoming a part of an amazing community.”

INNO Hospitality Collective is one of two pub groups owned and operated by Kirsty. The second, Lakeland Inns, has been successfully trading in Cumbria and the Lake District for a number of years.

The Tavern at Hale, in Milnthorpe, is also part of the Collective, with a third venue set to be added in the New Year.

The company specialises in contemporary dining and accommodation at its pubs.

At The Tennant Arms, recruitment is in full swing, with two managerial positions, four chefs, two kitchen porters, six bar staff and two housekeeping staff positions all needing to be filled to help take the business forward.

Kirkty added: “It is such a beautiful building with huge potential. The previous tenant, Tom Garland Jones, did such a great job and was unfortunate that the effects of the pandemic were felt so deeply in the hospitality trade.

“We look forward to continuing his great work and opening this fantastic hotel once again.”