Sarah and David Whitehead have been back at the helm of The Crown Inn at Highfield, this time with their own names above the door, for seven weeks.
Their five children have all been involved in work on the pub they previously ran for two years, before a seven month hiatus.
Rueben is the chef, Jasmine works behind the bar and even 13-year-old Matilda has been known to clear up glasses. Painter Lincoln and builder Riley are on hand for any work that needs doing on the pub, like the new darts area.
Sarah told the Daily Echo: “The pub seemed to be going downhill while we weren’t around and I was a bit depressed about it all. We thought we’d give it a go ourselves.
“We aren’t drinkers and we weren’t likely to step foot inside a pub unless for a meal before we took over, but we’ve learnt a lot and we’ve brought the fresh food back and are working hard to get the Cask Marque back.
“It’s a quirky little old treasure of a pub, full of character, but completely tucked away. We’ve had uni students come in and say we’ve been here three years and didn’t even know you were here.
“When students leave, we do notice it. We’re trying to do our best, we’d love it to be as busy as it is on a Friday night every day.
“We’d love to see some new faces, it’s a great pub in a lovely area. We’re friendly, open to all and have been told we’re stupidly cheap!”
There’s also £2 meals for children when an adult dines in in a bid to attract some new customers from the neighbouring primary school.
On the pumps are an ever changing selection, including HSB, Doom Bar, Ghost Ship and Butcombe.
The Crown boasts two pub gardens and is dog friendly. Student night is Tuesday night.
