A Repton pub known for its pints and pizzas has become dog friendly with the installation of a new bar especially for pooches.
The Bulls Head, in High Street, has created its very own Pooch Park in a bid to attract dog lovers and their pets into the traditional Victorian ale house.
Owner Richard Pope, who also owns The Swan, in Walton, and The Joiner's Arms' in Quarndon, near Derby, came up with the idea to welcome man's best friend and has been very surprised with the response.
The 52-year-old who lives in Wirksworth, said: "We have always allowed dogs into the bar area and I think it is part of what makes the pub what it is because people feel comfortable wandering in for an informal occasion. It is more cosy and homely.
"People don't usually allow dogs into pubs but we are trying to do something different and include those people who may be out having a walk and want to pop in for a pint or a bite to eat.
"Plenty of dog hotels exist so why not give it a go? Provided they are well behaved and on a leash I can't see any harm in getting the dogs involved."
The Pooch Park features a bar which stands at dog level and boasts an array of assorted dog treats, while owners can refill water bowls from a barrel.
Mr Pope, who has been at The Bulls Head for 11 years, said he is not aware of any other pooch parks nearby and says the change has been a hit with customers.
He said: "It has only been open a few weeks but the response has been incredible. We have made some significant development work to our bar recently and there has been quite a lot of change so it is a nice little added extra.
"The reaction has been great and people absolutely love it with most of the feedback telling us that it is a wonderful idea. I was very surprised with the reaction on Facebook.
"It has proven to be incredibly attractive and has really struck a chord with people. I hope it will encourage more people to come in; it is quite a 'broadchurch' business and we need to appeal to as many different people and different eating and drinking occasions as possible."
