A COUPLE have moved to Wiltshire from Somerset to launch a new pub business during lockdown after giving up their old jobs.

Richard and Tanya Tilley have taken over as tenants of the Red Lion public house in High Street, Heytesbury.

Richard said: "I used to work as a tree surgeon, gardener and landscaper, while Tanya was general manager of the Wedmore Golf Club.

"We moved in on November 13 and want to make it a family-led community pub where locals can bring their children."

Richard, 44, and Tanya, 30, who have four children aged four and under, have quickly gained the wholehearted support of the village.

Locals were keen to see the once rundown pub back in business after some of the third lockdown restrictions were lifted on April 12.

The couple have put 30 tables in the garden and erected a marquee-style tent to serve meals outdoors under the current pandemic restrictions.

During lockdown, they began a 'click and collect' service for locals to obtain fruit and vegetables and launched a takeaway service.

They have already installed more children's play equipment and are serving home-cooked food to visitors.

Future plans include opening up their 48-seater bar and restaurant when pandemic restrictions are lifted, and laying on events and activities for the local community.

They also hope to open up four accommodation bedrooms for visitors when the Government permits and new plumbing is installed.