Local villager saves South Hams pub from closure
A local resident in Stokenham, Devon, has rescued and revived local village pub the Tradesmans Arms, which had been closed.
The 14th century, Grade II-listed property has been extensively refurbished and was due to reopen this month under tenants Cathy and Mike Saunders. They hope to continue the pub's well-established food trade which has won it an entry in veteran food critic Egon Ronay's good food guide.
The classic "roses round the door" freehouse lies in the South Hams village of Stokenham near Kingsbridge and close to Slapton Sands, where the Americans practised the D-Day landings during WWII.
The partially-thatched building retains a number of original features such as exposed beamed ceilings and large inglenook fireplace.
It provides a main bar with steps leading up to a 12-seat dining area, a 24-seat dining room, and first-floor owners' accommodation with three double bedrooms.
Outside there is a landscaped trade garden overlooking village green, private garden and parking for 14 cars.
Stonesmith of Exeter sold the freehold off an asking price of £450,000.
By Angela Frewin
