A COUPLE who fell in love with the Ryedale area after moving to the area have bought their local pub.

Katie and Jonathan Sharp relocated from Leven in East Yorkshire, where they run an arable farm, three years ago.

The couple were looking to diversify and when the heard The Moors Inn in Appleton-le-Moors was up for sale decided to put in an offer.

"We have a good team at the farm but we needed something that wasn't totally dependant on the weather and world commodity prices," Jonathan said.

"When we moved over here we just loved the whole area and especially the pub which has all the traditional features and a really good feel to it."

John Macdonald, who previously worked at Tickton Grange, near Beverley, has been appointed as manager to support the pub's existing staff including Jude Featherstone in the bar, and chef's Chris Vasey and Tom Marley.

"One of the attractions was that we were able to meet the staff and could see how good everyone was at their jobs and how keen they were to push the business forward," Jonathan said.

Future plans include an additional ensuite, taking the total number of rooms to eight, and special events including Christmas and New Year parties.

"The chefs are invigorating the menu with a selection new dishes but our aim is to cater for everyone including walkers and we are a dog friendly," Jonathan said.

"We have been very fortunate to receive a warm welcome from everyone and look forward to developing The Moors Inn while maintaining it as a traditional village pub."