Derby-based Bespoke Inns has opened its sixth pub.

The company was set up little more than a year ago by former Marston’s and Hardys & Hansons executive Alan Shepherd.

It has just re-opened the Cross Keys Inn, in Turnditch, Derbyshire, following an £80,000 revamp.

The pub was bought from Scottish & Newcastle Pub Company — and there are plans to buy two more this year and expand to around 20. The company is scheduling at least two more outlets within the next 12 months.

Shepherd said: “The problem with the Cross Keys is that it had not changed for 15 years and needed a fresh start. Because we are a small pub company, there’s more freedom to give the pubs individuality and choose the beers and wines they stock.

“The industry is moving to a more traditional way of doing things, which involves locally-owned pubs.”