Refurbished Derbyshire pub targets traditional food market

A traditional food offer is set to drive business at a 650-old pub after a £100,000 refurbishment which has restored it to its former glory.

The Crispins, in Ashover, Derbyshire was reopened at the end of March by Union Pub Company tenants Andy Harvey and Rob Makin.

Work to transform the pub, which was built in 1350, started immediately last August, and has included a new kitchen and dinning room, bar toilets and an extended restaurant.

The ancient stonework and old English plaster walls have been preserved, and the pub has been stripped back to expose its beams and flagstone floors. Old oak tables have been bought to complete the picture.

Andy and Rob Makin first worked together at another Union Pub Company-owned pub many years ago. Chef Andy persuaded Rob to come out of retirement - and coincidentally the Crispin was already Rob's local as well as the first pub he'd ever considered buying, back at the start of his career.

The extended bar will target local regulars who will be able to enjoy their favourite drinks over a game of cards, dominoes or darts.

The restaurant, which can seat 65 diners, will provide a full range of traditional English dishes prepared by Andy. Specialities include beef in ale with dumplings, and duck breast, all prepared using locally sourced produce.

Andy said: "It is going to be two separate pubs in one - a traditional home from home for local people as well as a restaurant serving high quality food at very reasonable prices."