A BAGILLT couple has decided to bring back their community pub for the benefit of local residents.

Claire Hitchin and her husband Anthony, of Boot End, have taken on the lease of The Boot &Ship on the Bagillt High Street.

The pub has been closed since Easter and after having it refurbished with the help of family and local residents, it reopened over the weekend.

Claire, an assistant manger for a learning disability agency, part time health care assistance at local hospitals and volunteer first responder for Welsh Ambulance, intends zto join her husband full time once they have established the pub.

She said: “We want it to be the life and Soul of Boot End, known for great beer, live sports, a friendly atmosphere and community spirit.

“We’ve invested a lot of time, effort and money doing up the pub to make it somewhere people want to spend time with each other.

“It’s a bit of a risk for us, but I felt it was no good just complaining about the pub being closed, we had to do something about it. Everyone is really excited we’ve taken it on. It’s great.”

The couple have refurbished the property and plan to overhaul the commercial kitchen, so they can start serving food.

Caren Geering, Star Pubs and Bars Regional Operations Director said: “There has been a lot of interest in The Boot & Ship, as it’s in a great location and has lots of potential.

“However, it was important that the right people with a vision for the long-term took it on. Claire and Anthony are the right couple.

“They know the are and the pub well and are passionate about making The Boot & Ship the hub of the community.

“We’re delighted they’ve taken it on and wish them every success with this new venture.”

The pub will initially open 4pm-11pm Monday to Wednesday, 4pm to Midnight on Thursday and Friday, 11.30am to Midnight on Saturday and 11.30am-10.30pm on Sunday.