The King’s Arms Hotel in Malmesbury has changed hands again just a month after new landlords took over.

Dorian Gallimore and his partner Rose McLatchy took over the 15th century forming coaching inn at the end of April, following a four month closure.

But now leaseholders Wycombe Pub Group have parachuted in Gary Smith and Kiri Thorup to take over the reins.

Barman Johnny Constable has been promoted to assistant manager and all other staff are staying on.

A Wycombe Pub Group spokesman said Mr Gallimore and Ms McLatchy’s probation period had proved unsuccessful but would not go into details.

She said there was nothing suspicious about the rapid change over and added: “It was decided that they were not quite right for the Kings Arms.

“But we are pleased to have Gary and Kiri in place and I’m sure they will do an excellent job.”

The new landlords had been working at the George and Dragon Hotel in West Wycombe when they were told the vacancy had arisen in Malmesbury.

Miss Thorup said: “The decision regarding the previous landlords was nothing to do with us, it came from head office.

“We always knew we would be moving on from our last hotel when a vacancy came up.

Miss Thorup said they had already taken a liking to the town.

She said: “I had not been to Malmesbury before but I really like it. It has a nice feel and I absolutely love the country views.

“I’ve lived in both big towns and small villages and so I’m used to the pace of life here.

“Malmesbury has everything you need and so far people have been very friendly.”

Mr Smith said the couple were giving the pub a new lease of life.

He said: “The building was in a bit of disrepair so we’ve been painting and decorating.

“The kitchen is now finished and we have had the electricians in making sure everything is in order.

“We are open for business and serving hot food.”

The High Street pub was closed for four months after the death of former landlady Hilary Timms in December.