There are new landlords at the Somerset Wagon in Chilcompton.

Daniel and James Jesson-Keer reopened the pub in the heart of the village just over a month ago, after giving it an extensive renovation.

Daniel grew up nearby and had fond memories of the Somerset Wagon, and was keen to restore it to its glory days.

"I felt that it had lost its character over the last few years," said Daniel. "It was grey and dreary. I wanted to bring it back to how I remembered it when it was a busy pub, and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere."

Now, the pub is decorated in warm red tones, with wooden furniture, a gleaming bar and cosy corners, creating the feel of a traditional, but not dated, country pub.

"It has been lovely getting people in from the village saying 'thank you for getting our village pub back how it used to be.'"

Daniel and James are no strangers to the pub trade, having been in the business for more than 25 years. Most recently they run a successful pub in Poole which had gained a great local reputation for its food, and the pair have brought the tried and tested menu to Somerset.

"We have done this menu for years," said James who is currently running the kitchen while they recruit a new head chef. "There's something for everyone. Most of the menu is gluten free, we do specials, and on Sundays we do roast dinners."

The roast dinners are unlike most in the area, with a choice of six meats every week – with even the option of having all six.

"We used to sell maybe two or three of the six-meats every week in Poole," said James. "But we're already doing six or eight a week here. I've never known anything like it!

"In Poole we were often booked up a few weeks in advance on Sundays and we are hoping that the roasts will become equally popular here."

Many of the ingredients are locally sourced – the pair are using Arthur David, with the meat coming from Griffiths butchers, and lots of the fruit and vegetables from George's Garden Centre just down the road. "When we have more time we will be looking at more of the local farm shops," said Daniel. "We are looking for good quality and good value."

Daniel and James are keen to make the Somerset Wagon the heart of the village once more. "We have good food, good wine, friendly staff, and we will look after our locals," said Daniel. "You have got to look after the people who look after you," added James. "That's what makes a good pub."