THE Evertons Leisure Group of Ombersley has announced the sale of the King's Arms in the Worcestershire village, nearly a year-and-a-half after it bought the pub.

Richard Everton, managing director of the group, announced the sale this week. It follows the sale in the past two months of two more of the company's acquisitions - the Crown at Martley and the Bowling Green at Hadley.

Evertons is best known for its wine business and delicatessen in Ombersley, near Worcester. It was started by Richard Everton's grandmother in 1918. Both businesses were also sold in the past two years, although the wine shop remains in Ombersley.

Mr Everton, who became managing director 15 years ago, said the latest sale enabled the firm to focus on its restaurants, Browns on South Quay in Worcester and the Crown and Sandys Arms Hotel in Ombersley.

He also firmly denied suggestions the company was in trouble, saying it had enjoyed "very buoyant" trading over the last six months.

He added: "The Crown at Martley was an exciting project and we were pleased to sell it on as part of the short- term development plan.

"The Hadley Bowling Green was bought and refurbished as part of this plan, and following a very successful trading period was sold on for an attractive business offer.

"The King's Arms now forms part of the final sale process, and we wish the new owners the best of luck." Evertons began branching out into the pub trade five years ago with the purchase of the Crown and Sandys.

Mr Everton said the Crown and Sandys would now be focusing on food. Its new chef, Lawson Shuttleworth, previously of Prana, Birmingham, has been appointed to a new management team.

Meanwhile, Browns, he said, was also undergoing a review of its service and food, with the introduction of business- focused events and an ongoing survey of its regulars.

It has recently welcomed new head chef Andrew Glover from Brockencote Hall in Chaddesley Corbett.

Mr Everton married his long-term partner Rachael in May at the Crown and Sandys. She plays an active role in the running of the businesses.