A WELLINGTON pub is under new ownership after it was sold for £350,000.

The Blackbird Inn, on the A38 between Taunton and Wellington, has been taken over by experienced publican husband and wife team, Peter Welling and Yvonne Mulvihill.

The pair also own County Hotel in Haverfordwest.

Peter and Yvonne said: “We are very excited about this new venture and believe that we can create a very successful business at the Blackbird Inn, as we have done at the County Hotel Haverfordwest.”

The pub, which is a two-storey and Grade II listed building, dates back to 1773, and it was sold through Christie & Co.

Its previous owner, Keirsten Anderson, decided to sell the business to pursue other interests.

Stephen Champion, senior business agent at Christie & Co’s said: “We are pleased to have brokered the sale of this well known Somerset pub on behalf of Keirsten Anderson. The Blackbird Inn has a fantastic trading position alongside the A38 which links Wellington and Taunton and we have no doubt that the new owners, Peter and Yvonne will have every success in transforming this West Country inn.”

The new owners plans to carry out improves over the coming months, including increasing the number of en suite rooms, as well as improving the bar and dining areas.

The exterior will also be redecorated and there are plans for a paddock and parking area.

The bar and restaurant will be open from 11am until late.