Begbies Traynor has successfully sold two gastro-pubs out of administration, following its appointment to the pubs' owners Powder Train in February 2013.

The Powder Train partnership owned five freehold pubs across the south of England. Joint administrators Julie Palmer, Simon Campbell and Gavin Savage from Begbies Traynor have found new owners for The George Inn in Wiltshire which has been acquired by the Hampshire-based Upham Pub Company. The Handsome Pig in West Sussex has been sold to John Portman, an existing pub and restaurant operator.

Begbies Traynor partner and joint administrator Julie Palmer said: 'These five pubs present an attractive offering to the market-place and are trading well despite the previous downturn in the sector, and we have had strong expressions of interest from a variety of potential purchasers. We expect them to thrive under new ownership.'

The three remaining pubs are on the market, with further announcements expected shortly.