A HAMPSHIRE based brewery has purchased an historic pub near Stockbridge.

The Peat Spade has been acquired by the Upham Pub Group as part of its plans to open between 20 to 30 pubs by the end of 2015.

Upham Pub Group chief executive officer, Chris Phillips, said: “I would often drop into The Peat Spade for a drink and would think about the potential it has so I am particularly proud that it is now part of The Upham Group.

“We will work hard to keep building its profile and making considered improvements which are sympathetic to its history and local wishes. The Peat Spade has every ingredient to become a fantastic advert for the true essence of a British country pub.”

The pub will be run by Ben Maybury, who has been running the site for seven months, and the kitchen will be run by new head chef, Nathan Gebert. Mr Gebery has worked in some of the world’s top Michelin starred restaurants, both in the UK and his native USA.

A new-look menu will be launched as part of the launch and the brewery’s own range of fine ales, Punter, Tipster and Stakes, will be on sale.