Mousetrap sticks to its winning way

One of Torquay's busiest and popular wine bars, the Mousetrap in Abbey Road, is ready to experience a new lease of life as its long-serving owner, Gordon Beeson, has retired. And the good news for regulars is that the Moustrap's new owners, John Witcombe and his daughter Keira (pictured above), have already decided not to change the formula of the wine bar, which is a popular rendezvous all year round. John purchased the Mousetrap through agents Bettesworths. Previously, the Mousetrap has only opened during the evenings but Keira, who will run the bar, is anxious to offer local customers the chance to enjoy the ambience and surroundings during the daytime. The accommodation comprises a ground-floor bar with seating for 50 and a basement bar with further seating for 40. In addition, it boasts luxury owners' accommodation, which includes a terraced roof garden. The business, which has enjoyed good trading profits, was sold by Bettesworths off an asking price of £284,950 for the freehold.