A village pub is under new management after the previous landlords handed the keys to the chef and his partner.   

Mark Snelling and Maria Welsh had worked closely with The Parson Woodforde in Weston Longville for around three years before taking over the venue.  

The couple have big plans for the pub including the introduction of more local events and an extension of their opening hours.  

Mark Snelling and Maria Welsh behind the bar at The Parson Woodforde (Image: Parson Woodforde)

“I've always been a chef and worked at the Woodforde for around three years on a freelance basis,” Mr Snelling said. 'I know the place, the location and the building – it is beautiful. 

'We've been revamping the menus and will be changing the specials often.” 

The venue has seating for more than 80 diners and the is also home to five bed and breakfast lodges. 

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The beer garden of The Parson Woodforde (Image: Parson Woodforde)

Some of the food on offer at the pub in Weston Longville (Image: Parson Woodforde)

It was named after James Woodforde who was the clergyman of the village's All Saints Church. 

The couple are already taking bookings for Christmas and are hoping to “bring the local community back together”.