Wine buffs to pump up Harris Arms' list

The new owners of the Harris Arms in west Devon will have no trouble in recommending a good wine for punters to enjoy with their pub meals.

Andy and Rowena Whiteman have first-hand knowledge of many wines and growers, as they have worked in the industry in New Zealand.

The pair then moved to France where they became personal friends of numerous wine producers and growers.

They intend to offer these wines at the Harris Arms, which is on the old A30 near Lewdown.

Andy and Rowena also have experience in the restaurant business and will be looking to head chef Tim Treseder to build on the good reputation the pub has for food.

They plan to source as much local produce as possible.

The couple have decided to move to Devon from France after falling in love with the pub, originally a roadside ale house dating from the 16th century.

They purchased the freehouse through property agent Bettes-worths off an asking price of £465,000.

Matt Bettesworth, of Bettes-worths, said the pub had been run for the past five years by Peter and Linda Grant, who were moving to another challenge.

He said it was the only pub in the parish of Stowford and it enjoyed a strong community base.

It was listed in the AA Pub Guide and the Good Pub Guide.

The Harris Arms is known as a country pub and a food destination, attracting customers from what is affectionately known as the "Golden Triangle" ­ the towns of Launceston, Tavistock and Okehampton.

"The Harris Arms is an extremely attractive pub with a rich history and we are confident Andy and Rowena will quickly establish themselves as popular licensees and pass on their experience in both superb food and excellent wines," said Bettesworth.