NEW tenants have been found to run a village pub.

Experienced publicans Ryan Stacey and Billy Callaway have taken over the lease of The George and Dragon, a former coaching inn with rooms, in the parish of Hurstbourne Tarrant.

Dating back to the 16th century, the characterful Grade II listed building is a British country pub owned by Patrick Vaughn-Fowler since 2014.

The chef and operator has restored the pub to celebrate its original features and it now has a large bar and restaurant, separate function room and beer garden, along with eight ensuite letting rooms and a separate letting cottage.

Patrick decided to seek a new tenant to take over the leasehold to allow him to focus on another hospitality concept.

Ryan and Billy have run other pubs in the area and put forward an offer to secure the lease.

The couple are planning a full refurbishment of the rooms and trading spaces.

Ryan said: “Billy and I are looking forward to running this beautiful country pub and are delighted to have secured a long-term lease with Patrick who we have known for many years. We look forward to working with him in the future.”

Richard Wood from Christie & Co, which helped secure the new tenant added: “I am delighted to have leased out the George & Dragon and I have no doubt given Ryan and Billy’s wealth of experience in industry that they will be able to build on Patrick’s success in the coming months and years.

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“We continue to see demand from tenants wanting to take on free of tie pubs throughout the South of England so for those wishing to take a step back from the day-to-day operations, it’s a great time to consider creating a new lease and securing a tenant.”

Patrick said: “I am very excited to be working with Billy and Ryan and I wish them every success for the future. I am sure they will do well at the George & Dragon.”

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