ELLINGTON S Mermaid pub is set to close for three days in July for re-decoration and refurbishment of the bar and restaurant under one of Huntingdonshire s youngest landlords. Twenty-two-year-old Gary Barton, from St Ives, last month bought a 13-year leas

ELLINGTON'S Mermaid pub is set to close for three days in July for re-decoration and refurbishment of the bar and restaurant under one of Huntingdonshire's youngest landlords. Twenty-two-year-old Gary Barton, from St Ives, last month bought a 13-year lease on the picturesque Grade II listed pub, which he describes as "a damaged product that needs a lot of work".

In spite of his youth, the former St Ivo pupil is no stranger to the catering business. His first two years after leaving school were spent working in the Officers' Mess at RAF Wyton, followed by several years in managerial positions in hotels in Buckinghamshire and Wiltshire. He earned two AA rosettes at the Taplow House Hotel for food and service when he was food and beverages manager there.

For the time being he and his chef will run the tavern between them. "We are working on new menus at the moment," he said.

INFORMATION: The Mermaid will re-open on July 11 after being closed from Sunday to Tuesday, July 8-10. Gary Barton is on 01480 891450.