A BELOVED town pub has a new landlord behind the bar.

John Slone Jr has taken over at the Golden Ball pub in Dalton which closed its doors earlier in the year and was put up for sale by Robinsons Brewery.

He replaces Jacqui Chisman at the helm of the Tudor Square pub after she left earlier in the year.

Mr Slone is the son of John Slone, a well-known boxing fan and legend of Dalton and Walney.

The pub went unsold at auction having been listed by Listwood Estates for with a guide price of £105,000.

The popular watering hole has now been sold following the auction.

The pub was under threat having advertised with potential to be converted into housing, similar to the former Black Bull pub next door.

A listing said: “The property comprises a former public house with a U shaped trading area, a rear beer garden, commercial kitchen, beer cellar and three-bedroom living accommodation above.

“The property could be suitable for alternative uses subject to obtaining the necessary consents. Nearby properties have been converted to residential use.”

Plans were put forward earlier this year to turn the Black Bull into housing.

An application was lodged to change its use from public house to two houses. The premises will be converted into a four-bedroomed property and a smaller cottage of two bedrooms.

Another Dalton pub, the Red Lion, closed last year, but was also saved after being taken over by the owners of the Brown Cow Inn at Goose Green took over.