By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 09:46, Saturday, 16 June 2012

A popular pub which is defying the recession is to reopen Monday after a major overhaul.

Sous chef Nathan Clark in the new kitchen

The Turf Tavern, in Newmarket Road, Carlisle, which is owned by brewer and pubs group Greene King, has been completely overhauled as part of a six-week, £500,000 makeover.

Television screens beside the booths, specially commissioned photo canvases and an extended kitchen are all part of its transition to become part of the Hungry Horse brand of family food pubs – appropriate considering The Turf’s history and former racecourse links.

Thirty additional members employees, all from the local area, have been taken on as bar staff, chefs and waiting staff.

Paul Newsham, the pub’s general manager, said this level of investment showed there was ambition and hope for Carlisle.

“It is about investment in the community, in our local people,” he explained.

“We have a social responsibility to the area we work in.”

The final few days before opening have been a whirlwind, as the Hungry Horse training manager, Neil Tomkins, came to Carlisle to put the new and existing staff through their paces.

Mr Tomkins explained: “The brand is relatively new to this area, and we have employed a large number of people.

“The staff are excited about this, and the training has been to ensure they know how to engage with the public and give that little bit extra.”

A trial run takes place this weekend, with invited business people and friends and family, before the Turf reopens its doors to the public on Monday.

n On June 30, the Turf Tavern’s annual extreme bungee jump will take place in the pub car park, where a crane will have been erected for the day.

The event raises money for Carlisle & District Able to Play Scheme, and limited spaces are still available.

For more information or to take part, contact Louise Shanklin on 07841 015450.

First published at 08:59, Saturday, 16 June 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk