THE Old Thatched Inn – a burnt-out eyesore at the gateway to Bovey Tracey since it was ravaged by fire more than three years ago – has been bought by the town council.

At the end of last week contracts were exchanged between owner Gilpin Demolition and the council, which shelled out £95,000.

It is anticipated work to bring it back to life will cost around £500,000.

Revealing the news to Monday's council meeting, mayor Cllr Rob Bray said Teignbridge Council had recognised the importance of the heritage of the listed building and its important location, and on October 1 had slapped a repairs notice on the site.

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