A GROUP of pub regulars got hands-on to help reconfigure their local.
Previous operators of the Ancient Unicorn, in Bowes, had installed two ground floor bedrooms taking up much of the bar space, much to the locals’ dismay.
When new owners at the 400-year-old coaching inn took over, they consulted their regulars about what they would like to see – with surprising results.
Manageress Karli Potts explained: “We had a meeting with them and they put forward what they wanted to do.
“I then asked anyone who could to volunteer and they came out in force.”
Among those who stepped up were planning and design expert Chris Fish, who lives within walking distance of the Ancient Unicorn, along with local builder Adam Seymour and joiner Ryan Robinson.
Others joined in with a host of other tasks such as knocking down walls, painting and restoring the floor.
“I was overwhelmed,” said Karli. “When we started to knock the walls down I was really emotional.”
The end result was that in just two weeks, the bedrooms had disappeared and the spacious bar area had been restored to its former glory.
The new-look bar was officially opened to the sound of music from dale entertainer Mark Carter.
“We hope to push ahead with weddings, functions and hopefully live music will become a regular thing.
“There is also more eating space,” said Karli. “I can’t believe the space it has opened up.”
Despite removing the two downstairs bedrooms, the Ancient Unicorn has 13 accommodation rooms as well as two cottages.
There are plans to open up another two rooms upstairs to replace those which have made way for the new bar.
Owner Terry Blackburn bought the Ancient Unicorn two years ago and Karli will celebrate a year as manager next month.
