A HISTORIC building in Bewdley has reopened as a bar and bistro after a £250,000 refurbishment, in time for its 400th anniversary.

The Bailiffs House, in High Street, dates back to 1610 and was originally the home of the county bailiff, equivalent to today’s mayor. During its history, the building has been two private homes, a shop and a pub.

After being closed for two years, it now comprises a bar, 40-seat bistro and dining garden.

The reopening has created 12 new jobs.

Kidderminster-born co-owner, Ivan Rogers, 37, said: “The Bailiffs is one of the oldest oak-framed structures in the area and we’re proud to have transformed it into rustic but modern space, where people can relax and take in the atmosphere.”

Mr Rogers, who has recently returned from living in Russia to open the new venture, with business partner, Richard Hunstone, added: “The Bailiffs is an asset to Bewdley and with new additions, such as our dining garden, we hope to make it a place for locals to be proud of and where visitors from outside the area cannot wait to sample.

“We have an experienced and well-respected head chef and, quite simply, we want to make every customer’s visit a great and memorable one.”