A CLAYTON-le-Moors pub has adopted a new look in more ways than one.

Not only has the Hare and Hounds received an internal facelift, it also has new hosts.

John and Ellen Ritchie, both 47, have moved into the Blackburn Road pub to coincide with its reopening following a nine-week closure.

The makeover, by Thwaites brewery, includes state-of-the-art plasma screens for TV and sport fans and a complete overhaul of the decor and layout.

Ellen, originally from Manchester, said both she and John wanted to get back to running a community pub after spending 18 years looking after town centre venues.

She said: "Everything looks smashing and we already feel at home here."