Cheers as The Talbot Inn re-opens doors at Newnham Bridge (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Cheers as pub re-opens doors at Newnham Bridge

8:00am Sunday 23rd September 2012 in Ludlow By Adrian Kibbler

A LANDMARK pub has reopened its doors following a major refurbishment and created much-needed new jobs.

The 19th century Talbot Inn, at Newnham Bridge, has been transformed into a modern 90- seat gastro pub with seven ensuite bedrooms, private dining and meeting facilities.

Its re-opening following closure in 2009 has also boosted the local economy with the creation of 10 jobs and the new owner is pledging to use locally sourced fresh produce, ales and ciders as part of a new seasonally changing menu.

The 8,000 square foot country inn is owned by local property investor Ian Dowling.

He has overseen the ambitious project, which has breathed a new lease of life into the Victorian red-brick building after a 10-month restoration programme.

“We’re extremely proud of what we’ve achieved with the refurbishment of the Talbot,”

he said.

“It has been a long and detailed project but our aim was to get every feature as perfect as possible. This has been achieved with a contemporary interior while also managing to retain the building’s rustic and historic charm.

“Most of all, I think we’ve created somewhere stylish for people to relax and enjoy quality home-made food.

“I have lived in the area for a number of years and regularly thought how sad it was to watch such an iconic building decaying. So when the opportunity came up to buy the Talbot, I jumped at the chance to transform it back to its former glory.

“The feedback from our first customers has been exceptional and we’ll continue to try to impress everyone who visits in the future.”