SHIPLEY MP Philip Davies visited the Red Lion pub in Burley-in-Wharfedale to meet with local residents Alan Hayes and Oliver Renton, who took over the pub earlier this year. The pair took on the pub to save it from possible closure following the termination of the previous lease.

Mr Hayes said: “The response so far from the residents of Burley has been fantastic with many old customers returning and, after over a year of no food being served, the new restaurant has opened to fine reviews. I would very much like to thank our customers old and new for their continued support. It is fantastic that Philip found time in his heavy schedule to call in and lend his support, he holds a pint very well for a teetotaller.”

Philip added: “The Red Lion is a vital part of the local community in Burley-in-Wharfedale, and helps to make the village such a wonderful place to live. I am extremely grateful to Alan and Oliver for everything they are doing to keep the pub going, and I was delighted to learn of the great support they have received from people in the village. It shows the wonderful community spirit there is in Burley and I wish Alan and Oliver every success at the Red Lion for many years to come.”