A FORMER cocktail lounge is to reopen as a bar and cookhouse under new ownership.

G & G Inns Ltd has bought the building where Mavericks used to be based, in Horsforth high-street, before it closed.

The sale was put through by specialist business property advisor, Christie & Co.

It will open as "Lambert's" Bar and Cookhouse under the new ownership after a significant internal and external refurbishment.

It is expected to be ready in the first quarter of this year.

Owners Craig Isaacs and Gordon Lambert are experienced operators with a portfolio of seven pub businesses.

Both said: "Having found the site in an ideal location, we knew the potential for the building to become a bar and restaurant was significant.

"We're excited to open the doors to the residents of Horsforth in the very near future.

"We aim to establish ourselves in quick succession and hopefully appeal as a destination venue for the surrounding towns and cities."

Sam Ashton, Business Agent for Christie and Co handled the sale and comments, β€œIt’s great to see an early completion in the new year for everyone involved. The opportunity was advertised on the market for just over four weeks before it was under offer with Craig and Gordon. The sale indicates the ongoing appetite for nil premium empty units in affluent parts of Yorkshire. I wish the new operators all the best ahead of the opening.”