Drinks flowing again at historic pub

The drinks are flowing again at The Masons Arms on Thorpe Street, Thorpe Hesley, after Barnsley entrepreneur Gary Hunt vowed to bring back to life his parents’ local.

Gary and Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars funded the project - but the funding breakdown is confidential, said a Star Pubs spokeswoman.

Gary, who has seven other pubs in Yorkshire, said: “The Masons Arms used to be my mum and dad’s local years ago and I’ve known of it most of my life. 

“It’s a lovely old building, it was so sad to see it closed, especially as it has such a central position in the village.

“Residents have been crying out for a good place to eat and there has been a lot of interest in the pub’s future. 

“I wanted to bring it back to life and make it a place they could enjoy once again.”

Some of the pub’s original features have been uncovered and restored, including its fireplace and bay windows. 

Gary has also dedicated two areas in the pub to local history which feature old photographs and memorabilia.

“The pub dates back to 1878 so it has seen a lot of village history,” he said. 

Twenty-five new jobs have been created and Scott Kennedy (28), of Greasbrough, is the new manager.