James and Louise Hedges of The Biddestone Arms (34482)

WHEN the new owners of the Biddestone Arms came to north Wiltshire in December they set about redecorating the pub from top to bottom.

James Hedges and his wife Louise were looking for a pub in the area for years before they came across what they wanted.

They have since revamped the restaurant and two bar areas and introduced a menu featuring home cooked, locally sourced food.

Mr Hedges, 43, who now lives above the pub with his wife and three children, trained as a chef with the Roux Brothers in London, before embarking on a career in the pub industry in Berkshire.

He said: "Before we came here we were making lots of trips up the M4 looking for somewhere to buy.

"We have completely rejuvenated the place. We have used colours like Moroccan red and a sandy shade and people have been saying how much they like it.

"We have a restaurant area that sits about 60 people and then two bar areas. One is like a tap room and the other is more cosy with sofas and lamps."

Mr Hedges is responsible for cooking while his wife is more involved with running the front of house.

He said: "We are very keen on using locally sourced food and we use local meats like Gloucester Old Spot and Hereford Cross Beef. It does cost us a bit more to buy in meat like that, but it is worth it.

"We have a lot of people that like to come in every Sunday for our carvery too. It is something we are particularly proud of."

Mr Hedges said the pub serves food throughout the week and two courses cost £12.95 with an extra course for £13.95.

The menu focuses on traditional pub food such as steaks, pies and pastas.

He said: "We also serve lighter snacks at lunchtime, like jacket potatoes.

"We are very much focused on using locally sourced and organic food where possible."

The pub boasts a large car park and outdoor area with tables and an umbrella for smokers.

Mr Hedges said he and his wife will also start live jazz sessions at the pub once a week from next month, which could become a regular feature.

He said: "We cater for children and vegetarians too and from this week we will be open every day.

"We are proud of being an independent pub and not being part of a larger chain of pubs. I think this is something that is lacking at the moment."

FACT FILE:

• Biddestone Arms, The Green, Biddestone, Chippenham. (01249) 714377
• Disabled access.

• Beer garden.

• Open every day including Sunday. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday 11am-3pm and then 6pm until 11pm. Sunday food is served at midday, 2pm and 6pm.

• For more details visit www.biddestonearms.co.uk

2:26pm Thursday 17th April 2008

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