A pub in Tockholes has opened under new management and those in charge say it is back open as a traditional, community pub.

The Rock Inn is under the management of Matthew Kavanagh and Joanne Ashton.

They have taken over from former owners Vassilis Vassiliou and his partner Zoe, who served Mediterranean food at the site when they took over last year.

They left at the end of July.

Matthew Kavanagh Matthew Kavanagh (Image: Matthew Kavanagh)

Chris Bega, a shareholder at the pub who is also from the village, said the owners want to make the Thwaites-owned site a traditional pub once again.

It now serves hearty pub grub, such as fish and chips.

Chris said: “As lovely as it was I don’t think it was the right setting for a pub with a Mediterranean twist, especially in such a traditional village like Tockholes.

“The town really needed a pub that served heart and traditional classics, such as fish, hand-cooked chips and suet pudding.

"I think that better suits the area and traditions. I think people are happy to see it back open as a traditional pub.

“I am a villager here. The views from the place are stunning and the last thing we wanted to do was see that place close again. It’s such a beautiful spot and I think it boasts the best views in the north west.”

Matthew and Joanne officially reopened the pub on Thursday, August 1. The pub was cleaned and parts were repainted. A gardener was hired to spruce up the outdoor area.

Chris said: “In the short space of time Matt and Jo have had it, very much has changed.

"We have renovated the outside area. We hired a gardener who worked every hour to make sure the plants and flower beds were beautiful and appealing.

“It’s such an appealing place to sit. It’s been tidied up and looks really smart. You can see Blackpool Tower and even the Isle of Man on a clear day. It’s such a striking view.

“The food is also getting to be amazing.”

View from Rock Inn in TockholesView from Rock Inn in Tockholes (Image: Facebook/ Rock Inn)

The pub, which dates back to 1701, is currently undergoing a soft opening period with a full, finalised menu set to be released at the end of August

Chris said: “Our mission statement is doing simple things well, which is why we are having a soft opening. We wanted to make sure it was tidied up and repainted.”

“At the minute we are opening gradually so we can really get an understanding of what customers want.

“A pub is for the public and should be what the village requires. We want to make sure it’s right for everyone.”