Old Malt Scoop Inn opens to acclaim

The people of Lapford turned up in their hundreds to welcome the new landlords of the Old Malt Scoop Inn when it re-opened for business.

The freehold of the historic pub has been acquired from Punch Taverns by Linda and Trevor Voaden and they have set about a comprehensive programme of renovation and refurbishment.

In just two weeks the couple have stripped the pub and created a very comfortable and contemporary environment while retaining many of the original features that remind you that the building is an historic Grade II listed property.

The ‘Scoop’ now boasts several elegant dining areas serving a modern take on traditional pub fare created and cooked by chef Ben O’Brien who built a significant reputation while working for the Beer Engine in Newton St Cyres.

The extensive makeover has included exposing the original stone walls, new furniture and fittings throughout, wood burners in the bar and restaurant, a new commercial kitchen and Lloyds Loom style patio furniture. The car park has also been cleared and extended and the large beer garden to the rear of the property which provides extensive country views has been landscaped and re-turfed.

Linda Voaden, said: “Our aim is to provide the people of Lapford with quality food and drink in a comfortable and attractive environment. We are looking to build a reputation for genuine hospitality and to attract people from further afield who like a traditional country pub where they know they will get great food and a very warm welcome.

“We have had a superb start but we still have a lot to do but I’d like to thank all the friends, family and contractors who have worked so hard to get the pub ready for opening in just two weeks.

“The previous owners were only opening on 5 evenings a week and a couple of weekend lunchtime sessions. We are now up and running and will be open from noon every day with food available at lunchtime and in the evenings.”

Getting the pub open for business is only phase one for Linda and Trevor. They plan to introduce speciality evenings including live music and are looking to create further external dining areas and a function room.

Trevor Voaden added: “There is more we can do to enhance the building but this will take time because it is listed. We are having conversations with the planners and conservation officers who have been very supportive up to now.”