THE team behind two of Knutsford’s favourite eating establishments has taken over its third premises in the town.

The Freemasons Arms on Silk Mill Street has been acquired by the owners of King Street-based Belle Epoque and the Rose and Crown.

In March 2013, Matthew Mooney, owner of The Belle Epoque, took on The Rose and Crown, relaunching the pub as a Great British Chop House.

Formerly a pub and Thai restaurant, it was brought back to life by Knutsford resident Sara Cooper Warden in April 2012.

Now 14 months later Matthew has decided to run the Freemasons Arms.

He told the Guardian he was planning to fully refurbish his new acquisition with that set to take place at the end of June.

“In addition to great food, we shall be offering a broad selection of cask ales, expanding the wine selection and introducing cocktails following our refurb,” he said.

“'We have enjoyed an incredible 14 months at The Rose n Crown Chop House, and it is the team there that have led us in to taking over the Freemasons and creating a sister pub.

“As it is practically a neighbour to us, and adjacent to our own car park, logistically it makes sense.

"As with The Rose and Crown Chop House, food will be sourced locally from our well established network of suppliers and farmers, but the way it will be presented and the surroundings in which you enjoy it, will be quite different.

“Whilst the pub will be under the same family as The Rose n Crown it will be a very very individual pub in its own right – but always championing the true benefits of a great independent public house.

“We look forward to nurturing this new venue and creating a pub that both Knutsfordians and visitors to the town can truly enjoy and feel a part of.”

Until the end of June the pub will be serving food from 12.30pm until 8.30pm.

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