A SOMERSET pub has new owners for the first time in 27 years.

Dawn and Kevin Coupe have left Scallys a wet-led pub in Weston-super-Mare, to retire on their canal boat, the Grumpy River Pig.

The business was sold by Christie and Co off a freehold asking price of £325,000.

The two-storey 1930s premises attracts significant numbers of tourists in the summer months and also has a strong reputation among locals with live music nights, darts and pool competitions in the winter.

It is also known as being a biker-friendly venue, making it a popular choice for drinks and entertainment among the two-wheeled community.

Scallys has been bought by the Kimitri family, a local buyer who has various investments within the area, including the Bare Grills Smokehouse.

Vas Kimitri said: "We are very pleased to add Scally’s to our portfolio.

"The venue will remain closed to undergo a vast refurbishment, bringing it in line with today’s market.

"It will remain as a bar whilst incorporating a new food offering in a cool and casual environment."

Nicholas Calfe, director in Christie & Co’s hospitality team handled the sale and said: "It was a pleasure acting for Dawn and Kevin and I am so pleased we were able to secure a cash purchaser in these difficult times, to ensure they enjoy their retirement and after so many years in the trade. They probably need a rest."

Dawn and Kevin Coupe said: "We are thrilled to have completed on the sale of Scallys. Thank you, Nick Calfe and Christie & Co for helping find the right buyer, it has helped us move on to the next chapter of our lives and we couldn’t have done it without you. We wish the new owners the best of luck and look forward to seeing their plans for the venue come to life."