Three new jobs will be created after a £350,000 refurbishment of a Bow Street pub is completed.

The Rhydypennau Inn will close from 13 January until mid to late February with new licensee Barrie Jones overseeing a major refurbishment of the pub, which is owned by Heineken-owned Start Pubs and Bars.

Barrie, who is born and bred in Aberystwyth and lived in Bow Street for 31 years, had been running the pub on a temporary basis since September and has now taken a permanent lease. Barrie had previously run the Welsh Black in Bow Street.

As part of his and the brewery’s plan for the pub, there will be a £346,000 refurbishment taking place later this month. That work will see a makeover for the exterior with a new entrance porch, a new pergola leading from the games room into the garden, as well as a new outside seating area at the front.

Barrie said the upgrade will create three new waiting and kitchen jobs.

Barrie said: “When I saw the lease of the Rhydypennau was available, I leapt at the opportunity to take it on. I really enjoy life as a publican, being at the heart of village life and helping to raise funds for good causes.

“During my first year behind the bar, regulars raised money for the village hall. This year they bought a defibrillator for an old people’s home and we supported the local football team.

“I am keen to continue this charitable focus at the Rhydypennau.

“I also hope that the upgrade of the pub will encourage people from Aberystwyth to pop in for a coffee, meal or drink.”

Caren Greening, the regional operations director for Star Pubs and Bars, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Barrie to broaden the Rhydypennau’s appeal and give it the upgrade it needs."