A PUB manager has returned to his old stomping ground after six years away.

Steve Blair has been tempted back to the Twice Brewed Inn, where he was the manager for six years between 2006 and 2012.

He first worked at the pub as a part-time barman in the summer of 2003.

He was tempted back to the inn by its new owners late last year, after enjoying stints at the Bowes Hotel in Bardon Mill and the Allendale Inn.

Steve said: “I hadn’t been back to Twice Brewed since I left, so it was great to see everything which has been happening.

“I had a good time at the Bowes and Allendale Inn; the latter was named Best Improved Pub out of the 52 owned by the Dorbiere Group while I was there.

“But I was delighted to get the opportunity to come back and be part of everything that has been happening at Twice Brewed.

“There’s lots to get excited about. I’m looking forward to making more use of the Tap Room for special events like gin nights and wine tastings. We’re going to be using the wonderful outdoor space we have here a lot more, too.

“And of course, it’s fantastic to have the Brew House on site and they’re producing some tremendous ales.”

Steve recently made the headlines when he completed the gruelling Spartan Agoge Challenge, raising £2,000 for suicide prevention charity Papyrus.

He added: “It’s good to keep busy, and I’m sure I’ll get lots of support from staff and customers alike.”