VILLAGERS are priming their glasses for the re-opening of their local pub in Ryedale - almost a year after it closed.

The Grapes Inn, at Habton, which was threatened with permanent closure, will open its doors again on December 18.

The pub could have been lost altogether if plans to convert it into a house had gone ahead earlier this year.

But the pub has been taken out of the last chance saloon by new owner Derek Train who instigated a £74,000 refurbishment.

The news has been welcomed by villagers who feared earlier this year the pub could close for good.

"We are finally going to be open, and just in time for Christmas - it's great news," said Mr Train.

The new tenants are husband and wife team Patrick and Jennifer Crawley.

"They will be running the pub and overseeing the new food menu which will be provided," said Mr Train.

"We want it to be a mix of both so people can come in for drinks or come in for a meal."

The refurbishment has taken several months and contractors are currently working hard to finish the job by opening time.

"We have had to re-wire the building, we've changed the decor and we've upgraded the kitchens," said Mr Train.

Many of the locals have been forced to travel into Malton to use the pubs there.

"There is a stable in Habton and we're hoping the lads there will make use of the pub along with other villagers," said Mr Train.

"By serving food we're also hoping to attract people into the village.

"We owe a great deal of thanks to the parish council which has been very supportive of our plans and encouraged acceptance of our planning application."

A special opening ceremony is planned for Tuesday, December 18, when customers will have a chance to sample the beer on tap.

Habton resident Kath Reed is one of those who plans to make a return to her local.

"We're all really looking forward to getting back in there because it's a great place to meet people," she said.

"We were concerned it would be closed for good, but this is excellent news."

Updated: 11:53 Saturday, December 08, 2001