A gastro-pub is set for a name change – and a new lease of life, after it has been acquired by a restaurant owner.

The Red Cat, on the Wheelton bypass, near Chorley, has been an eating establishment for generations, in various guises such a traditional Italian in the 1980s and, more recently, a Mediterranean fine-dining eaterie.

Leisure property specialists Fleurets this week announced it has sold the leasehold of the Red Cat, which will now be called The Fat Bull.

Ian Taylor, from Fleurets’ Manchester office, said: “The new owner, Sam Crompton and his team are very excited about bringing The Fat Bull to Wheelton.

“This venture will be their second restaurant and one that will emulate the success of their first Fat Bull restaurant in Ashton-in-Makerfield.”

Following a refurbishment and re-branding, it will open this month. Ian Taylor added: “I am especially pleased Fleurets were involved in selling the lease, as I live locally and friends and I shall be using the restaurant.”

New owner Sam Crompton said: “The Fat Bull is an exciting, contemporary, British restaurant concept serving freshly-prepared, proper food with an extensive bar and cellar selection to complement.”