Graham Seabrook, who worked in military hospitals, and nurse practioner Sara Rowland have taken over at the Cross Inn.

The couple, both 45, looked at a number of other pubs but none compared to the Heptonstall watering hole.

Mr Seabrook said: "We had never even heard of Heptonstall before but we saw this place and just fell in love. The setting is just lovely.

"And we are both from Keighley and Timothy Taylor's drinkers so it seemed like the right thing to do."

Since taking over in November the pair have introduced successful open mic and music nights, and their new menu of home-made dishes have also proved a hit.

Mr Seabrook, who is running the pub full-time while Miss Rowland studies for a masters degree, said: "It is so far so good. It has been mad since we took over, a lot of hard work and long hours."

But now the couple are settling into the Calderdale village.

"I'm looking forward to the pace egg plays now," said Mr Seabrook.