Paul Harris, of Assington, takes on his local pub Shoulder of Mutton

A village resident has taken on his local pub to bring it back into the community.

Paul Harris moved to Assington with his wife four years ago, and he said one of the reasons for doing so was the local pub, the Shoulder of Mutton, in The Street.

Paul said it was ‘such a shame’ to see the venue close after being neglected for a while, and is aiming to bring a traditional, country feel to the pub with comfortable surroundings which the community can gather in and enjoy.

He said: “It’s good to see the community come out and get together.

“The community hub really appeals to me and we will be hosting regular events from quiz nights, to wine tasting evenings, live music, old school Sunday meat raffles, traditional roasties on the bar on a Sunday for the drinkers, alongside a 50-seater restaurant for good pub grub with a twist.

“We are aiming to make this a destination pub where people can come and relax to unwind with our Sunday papers, to bringing the family in for a lovely traditional meal, to meeting up with friends for a lively quiz night in a beautiful old Inn.

“Somewhere where you want to keep coming back to you.”

Paul, who owns a construction firm specialising in cladding, fit outs and M&E projects, is aiming for a soft opening in the second week of October before being fully operational by Saturday, October 11.

The new Shoulder of Mutton will have a hand-picked wine list alongside local ales and premium lagers at the bar to complement its theme nights – such as for fish and chips or pie and mash – to cater for all, alongside different dishes and specials.

The pub will be dog friendly and the first themed night is has in the works if for Halloween.

Paul said: “There is too much negativity around at present and we want good music, good food, happy people, and a lovely community pub that people want to come to, see friends and enjoy themselves.”

The front of the pub has already had a face lift, with Paul having picked a new colour scheme to give it a sage green facade, which is hoped will add a ‘welcome and vibrant touch to the heart of the community.

It has already received many compliments from villagers. The fireplace has been restored and a new logo created.