A YORK pub is being relaunched this week, following refurbishment.

The Clifton Hotel in Water Lane is holding a launch party at 7pm on Friday, with karaoke and a disco.

Paul Watson, who ran the pub from 2000 to 2007 is back behind the bar as licensee.

He said: "I ran the pub for seven years and in that time gained a reputation for our sport and leisure teams, having numerous darts, dominoes, football teams as well as a pigeon association and angling team. The Clifton was recognised by various industry bodies in that time culminating in four different awards for the pub.

“I and five of the regulars have joined forces to bring the pub back to life and we want it to succeed as it means so much for the local community. We are looking to reintroduce food as our Sunday roasts were always popular, as well as encourage members to join our sports teams."

The pub has letting rooms and will be selling cask ale for the first time, depending on demand, said Mr Watson.

Dave Rowland, senior partnership development manager at Punch Taverns, which owns the pub, said: “We’re delighted to welcome back fantastic operators such as Paul and see him reopen the doors.

“Paul and his team have some great plans to deliver a fantastic customer experience and they have our full support. I look forward to working in partnership with him for years to come.”