One of Carlisle's top bars is in new hands - with a long-standing staff member among those taking over.

Hell Below & Co, on Devonshire Street in the city centre, is now under the ownership of Daniel White and Jack Lee after they acquired it from nightlife king John Van Lierop, who oversees a string of bars and venues.

"I've worked at Hell Below for the past five years," said Daniel.

"I was operations manager so I was also overseeing other bars owned by John, such as Eaten By Monsters, as well.

"The opportunity came up for us to take over Hell Below and it was something that we discussed, and here we are."

Daniel, 26, says that he has a great affinity with Hell Below and was delighted when he was asked if he wished to run it as his own.

"I've always felt like it's 'my' bar," he explained.

"I've always worked closely with John and the Van Lierops and I think they saw potential in me and what I could do with it."

Daniel, who along with Jack holds the title of director, added that the change in ownership was a smooth transition - and that the pair are now looking forward to a bright future.

"We got the solicitors and the accountants involved and it all went well," he said.

"We've got some changes planned. We want to make sure the menu is inclusive for everyone so there's more vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

"We're stocking more gin and we're going to run gin masterclasses as well. We also make our own tonics, which is something different."

Daniel added that staff at Hell Below have also been "incredibly supportive" during the transition.

"Everyone is looking forward to what lies ahead," he said.

"Everyone is supporting us. I think everyone realises the potential there is here and we just want to make Hell Below even better.

"We're still renting the building from John, so we will still be in contact with him."

Other venues overseen by Mr Van Lierop include The Last Zebra restaurant and bar and Concrete nightclub, both on Lowther Street.