A MELKSHAM pub has been given a fresh lease of life after being taken over by new management.

The 18th century Kings Arms in Market Place, Melksham, was taken over by Ryan and Hannah Coates in January.

The couple have a wealth of experience in running pubs. Since taking over the running of the Wadworth’s house, they have introduced a home-cooked menu.

They are now open for breakfast for non-residents so locals can enjoy a full English breakfast or call in for a coffee.

Three en-suite bedrooms have also been added in outbuildings adjoining the pub, which also hosts weddings and events.

Denise Sheridan, Regional development manager for Wadworth, said: “Ryan and Hannah are great managers who have ran pubs with Wadworth for eight years.

“They know what a great pub should offer its customers and I’m really pleased they have taken over at the Kings Arms and will bring it back to being a central pub focused on the local community and visitors to Melksham.”

The pub, which has a wedding licence and 10 rooms for guests, plans on catering for more weddings and other events.

Devizes-based Wadworth Brewery recently invested £250,000 into the Kings Arms to create the new bedrooms.

Sheridan added: “The Kings Arms isn’t just a pub. It has conference/function and wedding facilities alongside guest rooms.

“We want to create a pub that offers so much more and is renowned in the area for great beer, fantastic customer service and a reputation in the town that it’s the place you will always be made to feel welcome.”