A 13TH century pub in Potters Bar has been re-opened after a refurbishment.

The Old Manor, in Wyllyotts Place, off Darkes Lane, was officially reopened on Friday afternoon by Hertsmere deputy mayor Peter Knell and wife June.

The pub had closed while builders renovated the pub’s restaurant area, unveiling original features of the building and restoring the doorway to the eatery.

The opening was also a chance for guests to sample the restaurant’s new menu – with the first 40 guests whose names were pulled out of a raffle eating for free.

Andrew Marler, managing director of The Old Manor, said: “The opening went very well.

“We’ve had a good reception to the menu and we’re all happy.”

The building is the surviving portion of the Manor House of the Manor of Wyllyotts, which dates back to the 13th century.

The first known occupants were the Pouns family in 1387.

The Old Manor opened as a pub in 2000 – but it seems someone forgot to tell the resident ghost, who still calls the building home.

Several staff and customers have reported seeing the spectral figure of a woman appear in corners of the pub, while others have felt the touch of an icy hand upon there shoulder.

“Guests have seen a woman wearing a smock like dress appearing in corners,” Mr Marler said.

“Others have heard footsteps stomping around upstairs when there’s nobody up there.

“I’ve been in the pub on my own after hours and felt a definite forceful touch on my shoulder – it’s not just a cold draft.

“If any readers have any suggestions as to who this woman is, I’d love to hear from them.”

For more information about The Old Manor, visit www.the-old-manor.co.uk or call 01707 650674.