Former Rascills owners reveal plans for North Yorkshire pub

Richard and Lindsey Johns, husband and wife team and former co-owners of Rascills restaurant in Raskelf, York, have announced plans for their new venture, the Hovingham Inn.

The pub, currently known as the Malt Shovel and situated between Malton and Helmsley in North Yorkshire, is undergoing renovation works with the aim of opening in early May. It will offer classic British dishes showcasing locally sourced ingredients. It is hoped that three to four en-suite rooms will be added to the offer within the first year of opening.

The couple closed Rascills in January after struggling with low footfall and lack of local support. It had been listed in The Good Food Guide 2018 and was the recipient of a Michelin plate.

At the Hovingham Inn Richard will oversee the kitchen while Lindsay will be in charge front of house.

They said: "Yorkshire is blessed with some excellent dining pubs and it is very important that we offer our customers a very genuine, distinctive and memorable experience. Above all a comfortable and inviting pub that folks can relax in, whether it be just a drink, a quick bite or something more elaborate.

"The Hovingham is the opportunity we have been waiting for, for such a long time, having long believed our style and personalities are very well suited to a pub environment.

"Our food and service will continue to be of a standard which we have become known for over the years. We hope to offer a product that will satisfy our regular and local customers alike, along with customers who will visit from further afield."

The Johns previously ran Artisan restaurant in Hessle, East Yorkshire, for nine years.

Richard and Lindsey Johns confirm Rascills closure after struggling with low footfall>>