Pub owner Michael Thurlby has sold The Prince Rupert on Stodman Street, Newark, to RedCat Pub Company

A pub owner has sold four of his town centre businesses, including one in Newark.

Owner Michael Thurlby has sold The Prince Rupert, on Stodman Street, Newark, to RedCat Pub Company.

Smith's of Bourne, The Jubilee Garage in Bourne and The Lord Nelson in Oakham were also sold by Mr Thurlby.

A statement on The Prince Rupert's website reads: "KNEAD Pub Group is no longer the owner of the following venues: Smith's of Bourne, Lincolnshire, The Jubilee Garage, Bourne, Lincolnshire, The Lord Nelson, Oakham, Rutland, The Prince Rupert, Newark.

"The four pubs have been acquired by the newly launched RedCat pub company fronted by Rooney Anand ex CEO of Greene King.

"Please be assured that all current bookings will be honoured and if you do need to contact sites individually please email or call.

"We are expecting a very smooth transition and to help it be as smooth as possible for the next four weeks the above venues will be accepting all KNEAD gift cards.

"However as our KNEAD loyalty points scheme is unique to our business these can only be redeemed through our Stamford sites."

Mr Thurlby and RedCat Pub Company have been contacted for a comment.