A FORMER regular of a Knutsford town centre pub has taken the reigns following a refurbishment.

Manager Liz Moore has risen to the challenge of moving from one side of the bar to the other so she can utilise her skills to take the helm at King Street's Cross Keys, which reopened on Friday, November 6.

Liz was a customer at the historic pub for years before becoming manager a few months ago and is now looking forward to welcoming back regulars following a major refurbishment.

“I’ve had experience of working for a national brewer and wine supplier to the hospitality industry and always wanted to run a business like this,” said Liz.

“As I know the pub well I’m really excited and passionate about ensuring customers at the Cross Keys have a brilliant time whether they are visiting for a drink or bite to eat.

“It was too good an opportunity to miss, and I’m really pleased I moved from one side of the bar to the other."

Refurbishment work means the former 17th century coaching inn, parts of which date back to 1642, features a new bar area, kitchen, and toilet facilities.

“For the first time, The Cross Keys will be serving food from 7.30am every day and we are confident we can fill a gap in Knutsford for appetising, good quality meals or snacks in attractive surroundings at reasonable prices," she said.

“And the fact that we’re serving breakfast makes this a standout venue in a town where there’s no shortage of places to eat. It’s very exciting, and we can’t wait to show people what we can offer.”

The new menu offers food all day, including breakfast from 7.30am to 11am which will feature eggs Benedict, full English, and a vegetarian option. The lunch menu includes sandwiches, wraps, and light bites.

For dinner there’s a selection of tailor-made burgers, steaks, classics such as cod and chips, Sunday roast, and salted caramel cheesecake among the desserts. The children’s menu has pasta, fish fingers, mini-beefburgers, and free ice cream among its choices.

The drinks focus is on cask ales, with three regulars; Tatton Blonde, Timothy Taylor Landlord, and Jennings Cumberland Ale – and four on rotation.