A UNIQUE pub on a tiny island off the Furness Peninsula opened under new management yesterday.

The Ship Inn on Piel Island had been closed since September after the leaseholders at the time terminated their contract. 

Former BAE electrical-team-leader Aaron Sanderson was chosen to become landlord following an extensive search that saw more than 190 individuals register an interest in the watering hole.

Mr Sanderson said on a previous occasion that the public response to his move to take on the pub had been 'wonderful and overwhelming'.

“There’s so much to take in as we embark upon our first season on Piel, but I’m incredibly excited about the journey we’re on in this very special place," he said.

“I’ve been visiting Piel myself since I was a child, so I know how much summer days out on the island mean to people across the area.

"It’s also going to be a privilege to welcome those making their first ever trip.

"There’s nowhere else quite like it, so it’s definitely worth the journey.”