A POPULAR pub in Chard is looking for new operators, and is currently on the market for rent.

The 17th century Choughs Hotel on the High Street, rumoured to be haunted, is owned by Star Pubs.

It's currently on the market with an annual rent of £33,748, and brings in £550,206 in annual turnover per year.

An extensive refurbishment costing £175,000 is planned for The Choughs, which will see upgrades and modifications made to the interior and exterior of the building.

Inside, new tiles will be installed behind the bar, and new wood panels with carvings will be added to the front - the existing overbar will be replaced, and the servery and backbar tops will be sanded and resealed.

The toilets will be deep cleaned and redecorated, and extensive works will be done on the trade areas.

Other plans include a refitted kitchen, a new drinks shelf, new lighting and seating, as well as two large TVs.

On the outside of the pub, a new laser-cut steel sign illuminated by LED lights will be erected, as will a new 'fabricated fascia sign' with 'vinyl display'.

Two more signs will be added in addition to these, including a double sided A-board sign with A4 menu frame, and a 'fabricated amenity sign'.

A black Warwick lantern will be erected, and all existing LED floodlights will be replaced.

Following the works, The Choughs will boast the following amenities: 

  • Open plan main trading area with bar
  • 73 internal covers
  • Eight external covers
  • Catering kitchen
  • Skittle Alley / Function room
  • SmartDispense
  • Small outside trading area
  • Car park with six spaces
  • Pool table / darts board / live sports

A spokesperson for Star Pubs said: "There’s plenty of scope for growth at the Choughs.

"This chameleon pub should change the offer and appeal throughout the day, attracting shoppers in the afternoon and mixed drinking groups later on.

"At present there’s no real food offer, which provides ample opportunity to increase revenue with the introduction of an enviable menu. 

"A sports offer will also provide a welcome additional revenue stream, courtesy of a skittle alley and televised sport."