Plans will transform the rundown pub into a family and dog-friendly local, with homemade food, a new room for sports and private dining and a revamped garden featuring its own outdoor bar.

Up to 12 new jobs are expected to be created, with the pub being run as a family business.

Nichola’s son and daughter will help out, while her mum, an experienced catering manager, will oversee the kitchen.

Nichola, who has previously run pubs locally including The White Horse in Sharlston, said: "I was looking for a new opportunity and it felt like the stars had aligned when I saw The Cross Keys was available with a massive revamp planned.

"It was empty when we viewed it, but it still had a warm, welcoming feel about it, we felt at home right away. It’s crying out for a refurbishment to bring out all its potential and get it back on its feet again.

"The Cross Keys has been much missed by the community. We want it to be a traditional pub where people can enjoy meeting up over drinks or a good homemade meal."

Extensive external works will mean the historic building repainted white and dark grey to highlight its architectural details, alongside new signage and lighting and improved wheelchair access.

Plans also include an extension to the car park.

At the rear, an overgrown garden with views across open fields will be transformed with new planting, festoon lighting, a covered patio, outdoor bar and new furniture.

A new kitchen will allow Nichola and Anthony to offer freshly prepared pub favourites including steak pie, fish and chips and Sunday roasts, with locally sourced ingredients used wherever possible.

Drinks will range from barista-quality coffee to cask ales, while the cellar is being refurbished with new dispense equipment.

Regular quizzes, live entertainment and other activities are planned to bring the local community together. A special Christmas menu featuring all the traditional festive trimmings is also being prepared.

The Cross Keys dates back to at least the early 1800s, when it was known as Alsop’s House.

Len Jackson, investment manager for Star Pubs, said: "We’re excited to be investing in such a beautiful old pub to help it thrive for the long term.

"Nichola and Anthony have the highest of standards and are rooted in the area so understand what residents want. Their plans are spot on.

"With a shortage of great food pubs in the vicinity and a lovely garden, The Cross Keys will be a destination for people from the wider area and a cracking local for those living nearby."

For more information and the source, visit: Pontefract village pub set to reopen after six-month closure and revamp