(Image: T&A)
A long-established, traditional pub has reopened under new management.
The Cross Keys, on Halifax Road in Liversedge, changed hands last month.
The new landlady and tenant is Julie Southward who has 30 years’ experience.
She first started working in the hospitality industry at just 18 years old, and took on her first pub because she wanted a change of career.
The Cross Keys pub
Why take on this pub?
Ms Southward decided to take on this pub because she was familiar with the area and fancied a new challenge.
She told the T&A the pub will offer home-cooked food and live music, as well as quiz, race and bingo nights.
Ms Southward also hopes to host craft fairs, farmers markets and family events.
The Cross Keys pub
The Cross Keys pub
Previous tenants took to social media
The pub's previous tenants publicly complained about the "increasing difficult challenges" they faced and said "restrictions put in the place by the council" had made matters worse.
At the time, Kirklees Council spokesperson responded: “The council has a responsibility to investigate noise complaints, and we work closely with both the local community and businesses to help resolve concerns.
"We recognise the important role these venues play in the community, while also understanding the impact noise can have on people living nearby.
"Our officers have worked closely with the proprietors and residents to address concerns, providing advice and guidance on practical measures to reduce and manage noise wherever possible."
The Cross Keys pub (Image: T&A)
'The neighbours are very happy with my plans'
The new tenant said she has nothing to do with previous tenants.
They explained that in a meeting with neighbours on October 8, they were said to be feeling very positive about the pub's relationship with the local community going forward.
Ms Southward said: "The neighbours are very happy with my plans for the future of the pub.
"We can't change what has happened in the past with previous tenants but we are looking forward to a respectful relationship with our neighbours who are very positive.
"Since taking over the pub I have been made to feel very welcome by the customers who love the pub and are happy that it is not closing as they had been informed that it would."
Where does the name Cross Keys originate?
The name Cross Keys comes from the symbol of two crossed keys, which are traditionally associated with St Peter, one of the most important figures in Christianity.
According to Christian tradition, St Peter was entrusted by Jesus with the “keys to the Kingdom of Heaven”, and crossed keys became a widely recognised emblem of his authority.
Many pubs, inns, churches and historic buildings across England adopted the symbol during the Middle Ages, particularly in areas linked to the church.