Pair take a stab at Woodpecker Inn

There are new faces behind the bar of one of South Devon's roadside pubs and "they're determined to ensure all visitors and locals are well fed and watered".

Experienced licensees Bob Mitchell and Christine Cole of Plymouth have bought the Woodpecker Inn at South Brent which is a food-led pub on the main Exeter to Plymouth Devon Expressway highway.

Bob and Christine, who also run the Robin Hood Club on Plymouth's famous Barbican, are planning to reinforce the Woodpecker's reputation as a destination food venue.

"We are looking to offer traditional home-cooked food during the day with an à la carte menu for the evenings," said Christine.

A spokesman for selling agents Bettesworths said the couple also plan to create a children's play area in the substantial grounds to attract more families. As well as attracting visitors and passing motorists, the pub had strong support from the surrounding communities, said the spokesman.

The accommodation includes a character restaurant that seats 40, an additional family restaurant and bar (seating 32) and a fully-equipped kitchen.

There are extensive grounds with trade gardens, outside patio area and planning permission to convert a barn into a tea room and to carry out building works to create a 10-bedroom hotel.

The property also includes three-bedroom owners' accommodation.

The Woodpecker was sold off an asking price of £575,000 freehold.