ST IVES S oldest public house, the Royal Oak, has been put up for lease by specialist pub agent Christie and Co. It is one of a number of 250 pubs across the UK that is currently managed by Spirit Group, which was acquired by Punch Taverns in December 20

ST IVES'S oldest public house, the Royal Oak, has been put up for lease by specialist pub agent Christie and Co.

It is one of a number of 250 pubs across the UK that is currently managed by Spirit Group, which was acquired by Punch Taverns in December 2005.

"The Royal Oak, which is the oldest pub in St Ives, is a well-known drinking venue in a prominent location," said Christie's John Grace. "Although it has operated as a managed house for many years, the Royal Oak presents a fantastic opportunity for an aspiring retailer to operate a quality pub business."

Punch Taverns has invited the existing pub managers to respond to the new lease opportunities, or obtain suitable alternative employment within the Spirit managed estate.

Punch Taverns' Operations Director Phil Pegler said: "Our support package is designed to help licensees flourish in their new business. However, we always simultaneously respect the individual's position as their own boss. It is their pub to shape and develop according to their particular business aspirations."

CONTACT: www.punchtaverns. com/christie or call Christie and Co on 01473 256588.