TWO pubs near Taunton were served up to new owners when they went under the auctioneer’s hammer.

Landmark pubs The Half Moon at Stoke St Mary and The Crown in Rumwell were among 155 lots at an auction held by auctioneers Clive Emson.

The Half Moon Inn, in Stoke Road, Stoke St Mary, on 1.13 acres of land, fetched £285,000, the midway point of its freehold guide price.

With more than 100 internal covers, the property has a bar, restaurant, extensive gardens and parking and three-bedroom accommodation for the owner or manager.

Also on the market through Clive Emson was The Crown at Rumwell, which sold for £225,000.

Located on just over half an acre, the freehold included 80 covers, a bar, restaurant, extensive parking and four-bedroom accommodation for the owner or manager.

Graham Barton, Clive Emson’s West Country auctioneer, said: “We are seeing rising numbers of instructions for pubs at auction.

“They always generate keen interest and both of these pubs caught the eye of bidders with a lot of bricks and mortar and land for their guide prices.

“The new owners now have various options, including continuing in the licensed hospitality trade or some residential development, either whole or in part and subject to planning consents.”