POPULAR pub the Black Dog in Chilmark has had a makeover and now boasts a new dcor, new boss, new chef and new menus.

Acting manager Ross Baxter threw a party at the historic inn for regulars and suppliers and they were treated to a mouth-watering buffet, fine wines and champagne.

The bars have been re-fitted and returned to how they would have looked in the days of traditional drinking pubs.

The smaller of the restaurants, which accommodates eight tables, has a cosy feel, having been decorated in reds and golds with hessian carpet.

It features paintings by artist Carol Bevis-Hole, who has had three one-woman shows, several exhibitions and has done paintings for a number of companies.

Mr Baxter knows the Chilmark area well, having previously been in the army and stationed at Warminster.

Since leaving the forces in 1988 he has travelled widely and been first officer on a luxury yacht, where he became interested in the hospitality industry.

He has worked for a number of hospitality companies and brewery groups.

He said that like the smaller restaurant, the pub's larger Brewhouse Restaurant can be hired for private functions, and has also been given a makeover.

Signs and artwork for the menus have been done by Debbie Jew.

Chef Clough Dent earned two Michelin stars for his last employer, a hotel in Plymouth, and is keen to do the same for the Black Dog.

Among the starters for his evening menu are truckle cheddar cheese souffl, and terrine of pan-fried foie gras, artichoke and roasted shallots at £5.95 and £6.95.

Main courses include loin of lamb with black pudding (£14.95) and grilled Cumberland sausage with leek mash and onion gravy (£7.95). There is a full range of vegetarian dishes and the wine list has been compiled by Mr Baxter.

The pub is open during normal licensing hours, 11am to 11pm. Lunches are served from 12pm to 2.30pm and evening meals up to 9pm.