A town mayor has given his backing to the proposed re-opening of a pub closed for more than two years. Llandudno hotelier John Humberstone has wants to run The Red Lion in Llanrwst. The pub on Denbigh Street has been closed for some two years and its potential revival has been widely welcomed. Mr Humberstone it regrettably closed in August 2023 and remained empty and forlorn for two years. He said: "We spotted it and actually made a approach regarding purchase. We then noticed it was listed for auction with a new agency and we made a successful pre-auction bid. The North Wales Live Whatsapp community for top stories and breaking news is live now - here’s how to sign up "Our intention is to introduce JW Lees ales and stout along with a new Mediterranean style cuisine which will bring a exciting new taste to Llanrwst. Our opening (date) is still uncertain as a few start up obstacles need to be overcome. "But like past challenges we have learnt to deal with them and continue our goal of re opening the Red Lion Inn Llanrwst very soon." He hopes to rename it under its Welsh name Y Llew Coch. The Red Lion Inn in Llanrwst dates back to 1844. It is understood it was built to serve the navvies who were building the Penmaen Railway tunnel under Llanrwst that takes the Conwy Valley line onwards to Blaenau Ffestiniog via Betws-y-Coed. On the proposed pub re-opening Cllr Arwel Roberts, Mayor of Llanrwst, said: "We are always glad to have businesses invest in the town and if they can employ local people and (use) local produce we are always happy to support them." The Red Lion has been closed for sometime, which is sadly common throughout the industry. Cllr Roberts added: "Unfortunately it is indicative of what has happened to a number of pubs. "If (this pub) is successful again then so much the better. I wish him well," added Cllr Roberts who plans to call in when possible. Conwy County Borough Cllr Nia Owen added: "It's great to see The Red Lion opening again. It was a shame it was closed because it was incredibly popular over the years. "It was such a hub for customers including Nant Conwy Rugby Club. It will help make Llanrwst a bit busier on Fridays and Saturdays especially. "And if the Red Lion is serving food it will be fantastic as we could do with more choice in the town in the evenings."