Keith and Bronya Fitzsimmons secured a six-figure investment to purchase The Knockerdown Inn, Ashbourne, after running it for 20 years.
The couple have now embarked on a refurbishment project to renovate the children’s play area, install new toilet facilities and decorate the interior, with plans to complete the works before Easter.
Bronya said: “Becoming the owners was a simple transition as Keith and I have become part of the fixtures and fittings over the last 20 years.
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“Royal Bank of Scotland has been so supportive over the years and we are pleased they could structure a funding deal that allowed us to take on the ownership.
“This provides us with the long-term security we were after as well as allowing us to run an independent pub in a beautiful part of the Peak District.”
The Knockerdown Inn serves English country fayre all year round, with its 10 staff doubling in peak holiday periods to cater for the increase in passing trade.
Richard Temperton, relationship manager at RBS, added: “Keith and Bronya have proved they are natural publicans, so there was never any doubt in helping to fund their aspirations of becoming the new owners.
“We wish them well as they complete the refurbishment and enjoy the opportunities this will bring.”
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