A village pub has put itself at the heart of the community with its own library, coffee mornings and even knitting lessons.

Licensee of the New Inn, in Wilsden, Joanne Chappell, has begun opening the pub at 9am on Mondays so residents can enjoy home-made cakes and a cup of tea while practising arts and crafts.

Miss Chappell, 44, took on the New Inn pub in Main Street in November after six years working as a social worker based in Bingley.

She said: “When I took it on I wanted to make sure it was at the heart of the community.

“It’s a place for people to get together. I saw there wasn’t much else going on for people of any age in the area.”

She has a small library of books which people can borrow, or bring their own books to swap, any time during the pub’s opening hours.

“I’m an avid reader so it was a natural idea for me,” she said.

“It’s a really nice little village and we trust people.

“Crafts are also making a bit of a comeback and I’ve always liked knitting.”

Wool and knitting needles are available for people who want to try their hand at the craft during the Monday morning sessions.

“People can try it if they want to or just come along for a coffee and a chat,” she said. “I wanted to bring the community to the village. I’ve just thought of things I like and projected them on to the pub. I want people to use it as a resource. If residents want to hold meetings or anyone has ideas of how it can be used I am open to suggestions.”

Miss Chappell has recently purchased a piano and is appealing for any pianists to come forward to play at the pub.

lAnyone who is interested should contact her on 01535 272551.