AN iconic Gourock bar has re-opened with a new name in a touching tribute to its leaseholder's late son.

The former Monteith's Bar on Shore Street will now be known as 'Lyle's Bar' in honour of new operator Craig Hunter's son, who died tragically in 2007 aged just 10 following an asthma attack.

The bar, which is owned by Inverclyde businessmen Sandy and James Easdales’ Dalglen Property Investments, has been a popular destination for drinkers for over 100 years and has recently undergone a major refurbishment.

It has been vacant since the end of the former tenancy in 2022.

Craig, who has taken over the pub on a long-term lease, aims to create a contemporary bar offering a traditional Scottish flavour for all drinkers.

He said: "I feel privileged and honoured to be given the chance to bring the old ‘Monty’s’ back to life again.

"Having worked in Gourock as a taxi driver for over 25 years, I know how well-loved and how much of an institution it has been.

"It is now down to myself and my staff to take the new 'Lyle’s Bar' forward and try and bring something a wee bit different to Gourock.

"After losing our son Lyle so young back in 2007, both myself and his mum, Lorraine, decided it was a fitting tribute to him and a chance to carry his name forward for many years to come.

"I’m pretty certain he would be delighted to see his name up in lights."

The bar has undergone a revamp since Craig got the keys in November, with both the internal and external features being renovated.

Craig is hoping locals and regulars will return to the bar to support the new venture.

He added: "We had a great first week of trading, with locals coming out to support us and celebrate the pub being open again.

"We’re intending to bring a bit of the west end of Glasgow down to Gourock and have a few ideas up our sleeve that will set us apart from anyone else.

"We are aiming to create a real community feel to the bar and concentrate on being a real music-based establishment.

"Lovers of malt whisky, fine wines and an extensive cocktail menu should keep regulars on their toes.

"Of course, it will take a bit of time to get Lyle’s Bar to exactly where we want it to be, but with a bit of patience, we are certain the people of both Gourock and Inverclyde will enjoy the journey we hope to take them on.

"On a personal note, I want to thank the owners of Lyle’s Bar and also the staff of both Bowman Rebecchi and Patten & Prentice for their ongoing help and guidance throughout this process."

The tenancy is the latest successful letting for property firm Bowman Rebecchi, who acted as the agent for the landlords.

Lyle’s Bar is open every day from noon until midnight, with more details available on its website and social media pages.