PETERSFIELD visitors will have noticed the comprehensive ‘sprucing up’ of the former ASK restaurant in the High Street.

Well-known local chef Ricky Villalon will be sous chef at newly-named Ruby & Monty’s Kitchen and Bar which opens later this month.

Owner Tim Kelly from London is investing in Petersfield as “it is a super town, with a busy, thriving feel to it.”

It was built in 1580 by William Bagyns, and became one of Hampshire’s first libraries, then Petersfield’s first printers, and has a blue plaque for its historic significance.

The Petersfield Society’s Spruce Up Your Shopfront campaign is aimed at helping stimulate the local economy, and Ruby & Monty’s is hiring day chefs, evening pizza chefs, experienced bar staff, waiting staff and a weekend kitchen porter.

Tim added: “Localised eating and shopping is the future. We’ll be sourcing ingredients from local farms for our brunch and pasta and pizza menu.”

Petersfield Society’s Spruce Up campaign also promotes individual actions that enhance the quality and success of the town.

‘Spruce up’ organisations are asked to contact the society to celebrate their efforts. Volunteers who want to get involved in the practical care of shared spaces, by litter picking and weeding, for example, should email [email protected]