WORK has finally started to transform an historic pub that has spent the past four years covered in scaffolding.

The Red Bear, at Sherburn-in-Elmet, stands in the centre of the town but has been described as an eyesore for years, because of the scaffolding.

But local councillor Malcolm Dowson has told The Press that Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery, which owns the pub, is now in a position to bring it back to its former glory.

Coun Dowson, who is chairman of Sherburn Town Council, said: “Its smack in the centre of town at the crossroards. It’s a former coaching house and used to be the court. Four years ago now, Sam Smith’s started to do some repair work and put scaffolding up.

“For four years people have got on to me asking when the brewery is going to get it done as it’s an eyesore. I’ve never had an answer for them as it’s up to Sam Smith’s.”

But Coun Dowson said that has now changed.

The councillor used to attend Young Farmers’ meetings with Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery owner Humphrey Smith, and called into the brewer’s offices when he was in Tadcaster recently. Coun Dowson said: “Chris Hearn, the senior architect, came down and saw me. We spoke for about half-an-hour and he was very informative and said they were starting imminently, but it would take up to two years to complete as they want to do it properly. “Their work is always 100 per cent so I’m aware it could take some time, but I was assured it would be started shortly.”

Coun Dowson said it was intended the old coaching houses at the back would be restored, as would the front elevation of the pub.

It is expected that the pub will remain open while the work is carried out.

The Press contacted Samuel Smith’s, but they declined to comment.