AN iconic Runcorn pub which previously closed has been put back on the map with a £70k investment.

Ten months and three lockdowns later, The Castle, Halton has reopened with new business partners.

The new partners, Charlie Lock and James Cowley, managed to secure and complete a £70k joint internal and external refurbishment with pub owners, Red Oak Taverns.

Since then, they have created ten new jobs and launched restaurant quality brunch, lunch and evening menus.

Charlie said: “The pandemic was instrumental to us taking on the daunting task of turning around The Castle, however after seeing how much potential the place had, we didn’t have to think twice about taking it on. 

“With the help of Red Oak Taverns we were able to use the time we were forced to close to transform and upgrade the pub and are now seeing customers coming back to us. 

“They are amazed at what we’ve done and are really grateful that the pub is reopen and has received a much needed breath of fresh air.”

Business development manager for Red Oak Taverns, Barry Lee said: ““We are delighted that Charlie and James are now well and truly open and are reaping the benefits. 

“They are great to work with and have some brilliant ideas to make the Castle a fantastic community destination pub.”

Charlie and James have also renovated the former court room upstairs at the pub creating a function room available for private parties and weddings.

They are hoping to have a wedding licence for next year.

Charlie added: “Reopening the new look pub has created ten new jobs and this is likely to increase to 13 in the coming weeks.

“We also have some very exciting plans in the works for next summer.”