A POPULAR pub which closed suddenly in January has been put up for sale.

The Pack Italian Restaurant and Bar in Elton Road, Belthorn, is up for sale with Keenans Estate Agents.

It states on property website Rightmove that offers in the region of £419,950 will be considered for the restaurant.

The website states: “Introducing The Pack, lovingly restored and remodelled in recent years creating an open plan, contemporary space for diners, a spacious kitchen work place and a fantastic bespoke bar area.

“The Pack has undergone structural changes from the extended bar area, a new light and spacious entrance hall complete with atrium skylight and an external terrace which seats an additional 20 covers with unrivalled views across the local countryside.

“The restaurant ceased trading in January of this year and is still held in the highest regard to the local community and customers alike. The Pack has gone from strength to strength and has received culinary awards. “

The business closed after seven years in January this year with Karl Elsworth, owner of the restaurant saying the decision was made with huge regret.

Mr Elsworth thanked customers for their support and said anyone with valid gift vouchers would be reimbursed.

He said in a Facebook post at the time: “It is with huge regret to announce that The Pack will not reopen.

“We thank all of our customers for the past seven years and we have all had great pleasure in serving you. Good luck to all.”

The restaurant had in 2017 been celebrating a turnover boom of 70 per cent after £250,000 makeover in 2016.

The refurbishment included the knocking through of internal walls to make it open plan and contemporary and enabling it to increase its covers from 60 to 80.

In addition the bar area was extended, a new entrance built and an outside terrace created to take advantage of the views of the Ribble Valley and Pendle Hill.

As well as retaining an open plan kitchen, the restaurant also included a wood-fired pizza oven.

Its margarita pizza has also come runner up in the ‘best pizza’ category at the English Italian Awards.