Snowed-in pub is put up for sale

The pub at the heart of a New Year's story that made headlines across the globe is up for sale.

Around 60 people were forced to stay the night at the Tan Hill Inn in Swaledale, North Yorkshire, on New Year's Eve, as Arctic weather conditions meant leaving the pub was not an option.

Around 30 more customers and staff stayed for two more days as they were unable to contend with the elements.

As well as making national headlines and TV bulletins, the story of the customers snowed in at the pub created a media storm across the world.

But freeholder Tracy Daly has decided to put the pub - known as the highest in Britain - up for sale.

She said: "The weather we get up here is a minor factor in the decision but the main reason is I have a farm in Somerset that I want to turn into a medieval venue.

"I have had a fantastic three years at the Tan Hill but it is time for the next chapter in my life."

She added that the recent bad weather had not been good for business.

"At first it was quite good fun and everyone got into the spirit of it but after a while cabin fever set it," she said.

"We have not generally been hit by the recession but the weather has not been good for business."

The New Year snow in is the latest adventure for the pub. Last year Tracy had to be rescued when the pub's snowcat became trapped as she was attempting to get medication for a member of staff.

This year the snowcat has helped rescue dozens of people from the bad weather, including a family with two-year-old twins.