Punch picks Blue Bell in historic town

Punch Taverns has acquired the Blue Bell Hotel in the historic and popular town of Castle Douglas, Dumfries-shire - and is looking for a leaseholder.

It was purchased for an undisclosed sum from former freeholders Colin and Carol Holden, who have agreed to continue running the pub while Punch recruits its own licensee.

Neil Findlay, acquisitions manager for Punch Taverns in Scotland, said: "This is a fantastic purchase for us. The Blue Bell is in the heart of the town on the main pub circuit and is popular with locals as well as passing tourists.

"It has tremendous potential and our first priority is to find a new leaseholder who will work with us on developing the business."

Punch has earmarked the Blue Bell for a £150,000 refurbishment, which includes the installation of a new catering kitchen in the basement.

"The planned refurbishment will extensively improve the pub's facilities without detracting from its character and traditional values," said Findlay.

"Further down the line we will also look at enhancing the food offering and reinstating the letting rooms."