I recently enjoyed an evening meal at the King Charles II with friends, which I would recommend for the quality of service, as well as the quality of the food, especially considering the more than reasonable prices.

The staff were friendly and welcoming, the service was quick, and it was easy to talk to one another in the relaxed atmosphere.

Colin Laing, who has recently taken over management of the King Charles II, told the Ross Gazette: “When I arrived in Ross, I could immediately see the potential of the place and I was aware of its history of being a nightclub and live music.

“However, I was also aware of the problems that had come with these, and that live music was now being offered by other pubs nearby. I then realised that we had a good food menu which was due to launch on February 28th and that there were few other pubs that offered food for that kind of market, as some of the other pubs serving food in the evening were very good but had a pricetag to match.”

Colin added: “I’m not against live music - I love it. However, I would only be looking to have the odd gig and these would be something different to other pubs’ selections. I am also looking forward to the garden having its facelift in the coming weeks so that my customers can make full use of this during the lighter months (once the fire restrictions are sorted) and this may potentially also include some outdoor theatre.”

While at the King Charles II, my friends and I sampled the Fish and Chip Shop Bites, Buttermilk Chicken Strips, Popcorn Chicken and Mexican Nachos, all of which were under £4. There was also a deal for three starters/sharers for £8, which we utilised! We particularly liked the Fish and Chip Shop Bites.

For the main courses, we enjoyed the Chicken Tikka Masala, Buttermilk Chicken Burger with Curly Fries, and Beef Lasagne. These were all £6 and under and the drinks were also reasonable, with a great selection on offer.

They also have menus avaliable to takeaway, and encourage customers to call an hour in advance, so that they can get their order ready to collect.

Colin added: “I’ve been constantly improving my offer since I arrived on January 23rd as I have been listening to what my customers want, and where I feel it would benefit the style and offer that I’m developing for the King Charles II I’m happy to implement them.

“I also have a fantastic team - along with my mum and stepdad - who are all keen to continue on this path and restore the King Charles II to the local bustling pub it deserves to be.”

Colin said: “One of these ideas was to increase my gin range - I now have 16 varieties with more being considered. It has been extremely popular and fits in with my food offer well. Last week I also got Peroni installed, and from Wednesday, March 28th, we will have Courage Directors Smooth - the only pub in the area to offer this.”

The King Charles II welcome any bookings, where they will receive table service for booking ahead. The pub is also dog-friendly.

Having pre-booked for my meal on Friday, March 23rd, I received excellent service and attention.

Colin recently moved up to Ross from Yeovil, where he had been managing a bowling centre there for six months prior to its closure. He has been in the licensed trade for the past 20 years, 17 of which is in a managerial capacity.

Colin said: “I’ve run all kinds of pubs from village locals to high-end city centre bars, but my favourite is where the pub simply does good pub food.”

Colin also mentioned the new Wednesday quiz, which he hosts himself at 8.30pm. Money raised will be donated to a local charity, which will change each month.