READERS have congratulated the new landlady of a well-loved community pub.

The General Burgoyne Pub at Great Urswick was previously run by John Oldfield, who took on the reins in 2018 aged just 19 to stop it from becoming another pub that closed down in the area.

John left the pub on September 29 and it briefly closed before it was taken again on October 3.

The new landlords are Claire Farrell and her fiance Kevin Pietrzak.

Claire is well-known in the area because she also runs the Kings Arms pub in Ulverston. In 2021, she gave the Ulverston pub an 'extensive' renovation.

Claire said every other week they are going to a 'pop-up Thai night,' due to the success of working with Bea Grice for the Kings Arms. Bea had to close her Thai restaurant 'Bea's Thai' in Ulverston earlier this year.

Ellen Jones said: “And the pie and peas are lovely tonight. That's my memory of many years ago - and they were.”

Maureen Balding said: “Wishing you all the success with your new venture xx”

Jacqui O'Connor said: “Good luck Claire and Bea.”

The Observer said: “I haven't visited the General Burgoyne for decades during my visits to the area. It was always on my list before the strict drink driving laws came into force. It must be profitable and packed with drinkers if someone is prepared to take over the pub. I wonder if they still serve the pie and peas or am I showing my age now and the younger people are wondering what the hell am I talking about.”

Jazzman said: “Good luck to you I myself haven't been in for donkeys years I might have to fire the Vespa up.”

Dalton said: “Good luck.”

Banger boi said: “Good luck in your new venture I wish you all the best. Nice to see a local establishment not closing down and getting knocked down and plasterboard rubbish houses built where it once was. You've got this Claire and team congratulations.”