ONE of Brampton’s biggest pubs is about to change hands.

The Howard Arms on Front Street is set to be taken over by Ruth Seggie, and her husband Andrew, who are best known in the town for spending the last two years managing popular cafe Mr Brown’s.

But now they are are about to take up a fresh challenge.

“We’re taking it over on December 5,” said Ruth.

“I can’t wait to get in there. It’s the first time we’ve had our own place.

Despite her excitement, Ruth is sad to leave Mr Brown’s behind.

“I’ve been very lucky with Mr Brown’s,” she added. “It’s been brilliant working in here. I’m really sad to leave.

“I really don’t want to go, but onwards and upwards as they say.”

Ruth and Andrew have plenty of catering and retail experience between them, and are looking forward to making their mark on the inn.

“We want it to be a nice family pub, where people can bring their children, bring everyone for a meal,” Ruth said.

“There are plenty of pubs in Brampton where you can go and drink and party.

“We want to make it more family-oriented, focused on good quality food.”

Ruth added that her and Andrew are planning to source their produce from local businesses.

“We want to use local suppliers for everything,” Ruth explained.

The news that Ruth and Andrew will be taking over the Howard Arms has been well received in Brampton.

“I’ve had lots of lovely feedback from people who’ve stopped me in the street,” Ruth said.

“I can barely get out of the door without somebody stopping me and saying it’s fantastic news that I’ve got the Howard.

“Everybody I’ve spoken to says it’s fantastic that we want to make it into a community pub again.”

David Moorat, chairman of Brampton parish council, is looking forward to seeing the Howard Arms take a

new direction.

“I’m very pleased to hear that there’s going to be some new management to the Howard Arms,” he said.

“As I help to manage the visitor’s centre in Brampton, there’s quite a number of people who come and ask where can they can go for an evening meal, where they can stay overnight.

“We need a good eating out place and a good bed and breakfast place,” he added.

The Howard Arms will be closed for a refurbishment in January, allowing the couple to put their own touch on it.

“We want to put 110 per cent into it,” said Ruth. “It’s a beautiful building with a huge amount of history. There is a great deal that can be done with it.”