The latest stories from Arkell's Pubs
Swindon Town FC signs Arkell’s to 3-year deal
Arkell’s Brewery has signed a new three year sponsorship agreement with Swindon Town FC Ltd. In addition to retaining the naming rights to the North Stand at The County Ground, which the Swindon-based brewery has held since 1997, Arkell’s and Swindon Town FC will be developing a number of new commercial activities over the course of the three-year term.
“We have wanted to develop a closer commercial relationship with Swindon Town FC for a while,” said Nick Arkell, Sales Director at Arkell’s Brewery.
“With the club under new ownership, this is the ideal time to bring two of Swindon’s best-loved brands together for the benefit of club supporters and those living in and around Swindon.
"The new deal will include sponsorship of the match-day programme, fixture card, match day lucky season ticket number draw and the Arkell’s player of the month."
Nick Arkell and Nick Watkins celebrating the 3 year deal at the Arkell's stand
The brewery is also planning to launch a new Swindon Town FC Wine Club, the details of which will be announced separately.
Swindon Town FC’s Chief Executive, Nick Watkins, said: “Since becoming involved with the club I felt we should be doing much more with Arkell’s as a sponsorship partner so I am delighted with this new deal.
"Both Arkell’s and Swindon Town FC are an integral part of the community’s history and in this, our 40th League Cup anniversary year, it’s very appropriate that we will see a cementing of this relationship.”
Duke of Kent gets Territorial at Arkell’s
Arkell’s hosted its first ever royal visit on Thursday 5th June when the Duke of Kent arrived to help launch a new beer at the brewery in celebration of the Territorial Army’s 100th anniversary.
Wessex Volunteer Ale has been brewed especially for the celebration, thanks to two members of The Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry- who also happen to Chairman and Director of Arkell’s Brewery.
Chairman James Arkell, also a retired Lieutenant Colonel of The Royal Yeomanry served with the Territorial Army from 1972 to 1995. His son, brewery director George, joined two years ago and has recently been commissioned from Sandhurst.
The Duke, whose full title is Field Marshal HRH The Duke of Kent KG, GCMG, GCVO, ADC, is patron of the Territorial Army and is helping to celebrate 100 years of its service to the nation, during which TA soldiers have served alongside their Regular Army comrades in almost every major operation around the world.
The Duke of Kent pouring the first pint of Wessex Volunteer Ale alongside George Arkell.
The Duke arrived at Arkell’s Brewery at 2pm to go on a conducted tour of the historic brewery. He was presented with the anniversary Wessex Volunteer Ale, which has a 4% ABV and brewed especially for the occasion by Head Brewer, Don Bracher and unveiled a plaque commemorating his visit.
The bottle’s label, also been specially designed for the anniversary, carries the Arkell’s motto: Fortes Creantur Fortibus, which means: 'The strong are produced by the powerful and the able’, which could also be said of a country by its army.
James Arkell said: “We were very honoured to receive a visit from The Duke of Kent, especially in this anniversary year with our special family connection to The Territorial Army through George and myself.
“The Brewery is a fine example of a Victorian Steam Brewery and one of the few of its kind left in the country. As such were very proud to be able to show it off to His Royal Highness. He spent more than an hour visiting the brewery, talking to all our staff who stopped work to meet him. It was a great occasion.”
The Duke of Kent was accompanied by The High Sheriff of Wiltshire and the Mayor of Swindon.
WATCH VIDEO
Click the play button on the pane below to watch a video of the Duke's visit:
Duke of Kent - SwindonWeb gallery and video 
First ever royal visit to Arkell’s Brewery
Arkell’s will be hosting its first ever royal visit on Thursday 5th June when the Duke of Kent arrives to help launch a new beer at the brewery in celebration of the Territorial Army’s 100th anniversary.
Wessex Volunteer Ale has been brewed especially for the celebration, by two members of The Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry- who also happen to be Chairman and Director of Arkell’s Brewery.
Arkell’s Chairman James Arkell, also a retired Lieutenant Colonel of The Royal Yeomanry served with the Territorial Army from 1972 to 1995- . His son George joined two years ago and has recently been commissioned from Sandhurst.
The Duke, whose full title is Field Marshal HRH The Duke of Kent KG, GCMG, GCVO, ADC, is patron of the Territorial Army and is helping to celebrate 100 years of its service to the nation, during which TA soldiers have served alongside their Regular Army comrades in almost every major operation around the world.
The Duke of Kent on his 2007 visit to the Swindon Museum of Computing
The Duke will arrive at Arkell’s Brewery at 2pm. He will be taken on a conducted tour of the historic brewery and presented with the anniversary Wessex Volunteer Ale, which has a 4% ABV and brewed especially for the occasion by Head Brewer, Don Bracher.
The bottle’s label, which has also been specially designed for the anniversary, carries the Arkell’s motto: Fortes Creantur Fortibus, which means: 'The strong are produced by the powerful and the able’, which could also be said of a country by its army.
James Arkell said: “We are very honoured indeed to be receiving a visit from The Duke of Kent, especially in this anniversary year and with our special family connection to The Territorial Army through George and myself.
“The Brewery is a fine example of a Victorian Steam Brewery and one of the few of its kind left in the country. As such we are proud to be able to show it off to His Royal Highness. Generations of local Swindon families have worked here alongside the Arkell’s and all our staff are looking forward to this opportunity of meeting The Duke. The Territorial’s continue to provide important backup to our regular forces and we are proud to show our support for them. A toast in our beer will make us proud of The Duke and our T.A.”
Time stands still for Arkell’s
Arkell’s Brewery clock might have stopped, but luckily the brewing of its real ales doesn’t.
The Arkell’s clock, mounted onto the front of the Brewery at Stratton, was taken away to be serviced last Friday by clockmaker David Pawley from Newbury.
Don Bracher, head brewer at the brewery, said: “David built the Arkell’s clock ten years ago after the previous one rusted away. His replacement is beautiful and kept perfect time until recently, but like everyone it needs a wash, clean and brush-up occasionally, so time will stand still at the brewery until it comes back in a few weeks.”
David Pawley lifts the Arkell's clock down for repair
David Pawley, a clock-maker for over 30 years, is a member of the British Horological Institute. “I love building clocks and it was great to build a special one for Arkell’s Brewery. It is radio controlled so every time the clocks change in the summer and winter, it adjusts itself automatically thanks to a signal from Cumbria which covers the whole of the UK.”
When it arrives back at Arkell’s Brewery, in a few weeks, the time will begin again at the 164-year old brewery.
More about the Brewery history
Stone me! The Highwayman cooks up a piece of theatre
The Highwayman Inn on the A417 near Birdlip has introduced a new concept onto its menu – ‘Steak on a Stone’, where diners can cook their own meat exactly the way they like it.
Whilst a well-known concept abroad, Highwayman landlords John and Sam Flynn are the first people to introduce the idea to this area. Stones are heated to a constant temperature of 440° centigrade and taken to the table along with the meat or fish of choice. Diners can then cook their steak or fish exactly the way they like it.
Chef John has also added a new twist: as well as fish or steak, he’s also added kangaroo, bison and ostrich meat to his menu.
As well as being a healthy option, as the meat cooks quickly, without oil, so the juices are sealed in and the meat retains its flavour, John says it’s also a piece of theatre in the dining room.
“The stone plates come out of the kitchen making a wonderful sizzling sound which can almost stop conversation for a few moments,” he says. “Eating out should be fun, and this proves it can be.”
Landlord and Lady John and Sam Flynn serving their new stone plates
John and Sam trialled their new ‘steak on a stone’ food on a group of family and friends this week at this Arkell’s-owned pub, and will run the new concept alongside their regular menu.
Jean Scarr from Ashton Keynes, said: “I chose pork kebabs and they were delicious. You don’t need any sauce because the meat is really good quality and all the juices seem to be locked inside.”
According to John, fruit and vegetables can also be cooked on the stone, although he hasn’t had time to experiment with these yet.
“We only took delivery of the cooker last week so the concept is almost as new to us as to our customers,” he said.
Ray Fisher Retires
One of Swindon’s most well-respected businessmen, Ray Fisher, is retiring as Finance Director at Arkell’s Brewery after 34 years.
The brewery, his second family according to wife Christine, threw a party for him today to celebrate his long and successful career.
James Arkell said: “Ray came to work at Arkells in 1974, first as accountant, then as company secretary, although it’s such a long time ago none of us can really remember. What is important, however, is that he was the first non Arkell family member to become a full member of the Board because we thought so much of him – and still do. The brewery really won’t be the same without him.
Ray was also Mayor of Swindon in 2005 and was recently re-elected as councillor for Stratton ward.
Ray, 62, is also very sad to be leaving. He said: “It’s been an absolutely great career and wonderful fun – it is simply one of the best jobs to have as an accountant – because of course I’ve had to regularly sample the product!
“Whilst 34 years seems a very long time, it’s certainly not unusual at Arkell’s where if you’re lucky enough to work here, you do tend to stay. I’m not the longest serving member of staff.”
Finance Director Ray Fisher celebrates his retirement with James Arkell
Retiring a few years early, Ray has cited the huge increase in Government red tape in contributing to his decision. “It’s got absolutely ridiculous recently. Many of these rules and regulations take so long to comply with and in the big scheme of things mean absolutely nothing at all. It’s very difficult for every business, large and small; it’s so time-consuming and does nothing to contribute to the success of the company.”
Ray moved to Swindon from London in 1968 to work at Roussell Laboratories in the Town, moving to Arkell’s in 1974.
Ray and Christine live near the brewery and have four children. Daughter Helen is following in the family tradition and well on her way to her first ten years at the brewery. The couple also have three grandchildren.
Ray and Christine don’t have any ambitious travel plans for their retirement, in fact Ray says that his future lies with his family, his garden and, of course, a pint of 3Bs in celebration of a wonderful life so far.
Mayday at Arkell's as brewery launches new beer
A traditional beer in danger of dying out in certain areas of Britain, has been 'saved' by Swindon-based Arkell's Brewery.
Arkell's new Maypole Mild, 3.6 abv, is traditional mild ale. Dark in colour, the beer is an 'easy drinking ale', delicately hopped with English Fuggles from Kingston Bagpuize in Oxfordshire.
According to CAMRA (The Campaign for Real Ale) this traditional style of beer, dating back over 400 hundred years, has unfortunately disappeared from many pubs and is in danger of becoming extinct in certain areas of Britain.
But over the years, Arkell's has won a number of awards for its Mild Ales, and head brewer Don Bracher, is keen to maintain the tradition.
The Sun Inn Landlady, Cerian Lye-Owens and Arkell's Head Brewer, Don Bracher sample the new Maypole Mild beer
"Mild ale is usually slightly sweeter and distinctly less bitter on the palate and in aroma than more highly hopped bitters. Mild is usually, but not always, darker in colour than bitter, through the use of a higher roast malt or caramel, and is a lovely beer for this time of year," he said.
Maypole Mild will be available throughout the month of May at participating Arkell's pubs and many other free trade houses across the South West.
Historically, Mild ales were the staples in the cellars of beerhouses and taverns across the land. Perfect to drink after a hard day's physical work, but perhaps as a result of lifestyles becoming more sedentary, so the call for mild ales became less.
Recently, however, mild ales are once again becoming more popular and drinkers recognise that their distinct taste and quality, thanks to real ale brewers such as Arkell's.
Arkell’s fattens up The Bantam
Contrary to much popular belief, the life of the community pub isn’t yet over, says Swindon-based Arkell’s Brewery.
After a 5-month £150,000 refurbishment by pub owners Arkell’s, the Bantam at Burghfield Common near Reading is once again providing much-needed social facilities to the local community.
The pub now has a bigger bar, space for a snooker table, new kitchen and new loos, including disabled facilities.
Popular local pub The Bantam was built in 1962, and local boy and landlord Gary Clutterbuck took over behind the bar 18 months ago. He said: “The Bantam is a focal point in the village, busiest in the winter months when customers don’t really want to travel miles for a good evening out, so I’m really pleased that Arkell’s has invested so much here, my customers really appreciate it.”
Barry Hunt, Gary Clutterbuck and George Arkell at The Bantam
George Arkell, director at Arkell’s Brewery, said: “We bought The Bantam in 2000 and it’s proved a great success with the locals who’ve supported it well. We are known for our on-going investment in our rural pubs, but community pubs are equally as important as they can be the life-blood of a built-up residential area, so investment here is equally important.”
The Bantam also has a special place in the heart of one Arkell’s employee – free trade representative, Barry Hunt, who met his future wife there on Christmas Day 1968.
Barry said: “I lived down the road and regularly visited The Bantam with my mates. On Christmas Day 1968 I saw Jan across the bar, and the rest is history! It’s lovely to be back 40 years later as part of the company which has given the pub a new lease of life.”
More about The Bantam, Burghfield Common
Brewery invests £100,000 in The Crown at Broad Hinton
The Crown at Broad Hinton is getting a £100,000 investment from its owners Arkell’s Brewery.
The work, begining today, will take nine weeks after which the pub will emerge with brand new loos, including disabled, new wooden floors and redecoration throughout.
New landlords, Terry Beamish and Trisha Moloney, who only took over as tenants last week, will keep the pub open throughout the refurbishment.
Terry, a Wiltshire man and trained chef, who moved up after 20 years in London running The Hope and Sirloin pub near Smithfield Market is planning to build the land-locked Crown’s reputation as a restaurant with a great fish menu.
“We will be getting our fish fresh every day from Grimsby,” he said, “As well as sourcing our meat locally. We’re planning to build up the restaurant’s reputation and will also be looking to employ more staff from around the area to help us.”
The Crown as it appears now
George Arkell at Arkell’s Brewery said: “The Crown at Broad Hinton is a very pretty pub in a lovely Wiltshire village and deserves the refurbishment it’s receiving. Terry and Patricia are first class tenants, having been used to running a busy and well-known London restaurant, where they were used to serving Champagne and Sirloin for breakfast from 6am.
“ At The Crown we think that a pint of 3Bs and a plate of fresh fish will have the same appeal – there’s not a lot of call for Champagne in the mornings in Wiltshire, although perhaps we’ll break open a few bottles when the work on the pub finishes at the beginning of June.”
Arkell’s bought The Crown at Broad Hinton in 1986. Close to one of Wiltshire’s historic white horses at Hackpen, it’s just off the main Swindon-Devizes road. Large inside and with extensive gardens and parking outside, it remains very popular particularly during the Summer months.
The Crown also offers bed and breakfast accommodation.
More about The Crown Inn, Broad Hinton
New landlords keep it in the family
Moving house is said to be one of the most stressful experiences.
Moving pubs is no different, except that if you’re moving to a pub close by, you do tend to take many of your customers with you.
Having taken over The Brewer’s Arms in Cricklade Street, Cirencester, brother and sister landlords, Charles and Angela Hart found themselves being followed by many customers from their previous pub in the town.
When the dynamic family duo reopened The Brewer’ Arms, they couldn’t believe the number of customers that followed them.
“It was great,” said Charles. “Lots of familiar faces, but behind a different bar.”
Charles and Angela moved into the Arkell’s-owned pub last week after more than a decade elsewhere. “We wanted a pub owned by a company that cares about its landlords,” explained Charles. “Far from being a national pub company, Arkell’s is a local brewery which not only cares about its beer, but about its landlords too – that’s going to make a real difference to us.”
Landlord Charles Hart with barman Paul Wright
George Arkell, director at Arkell’s Brewery who lives just outside Cirencester, said: “We’re a family brewery with three generations still in the business. When Charles and Angela approached up about taking over The Brewer’s we loved the fact that they were also a successful family team and we knew we’d work well together.”
Charles ran a pub in California before returning to his home town of Cirencester in 1996. Angela returned from running a pub in Oxford at the same time and together they decided to run their own pub.
“Family means a lot to us and we wanted to be close to our dad who still lives in Cirencester,” explained Charles. “I’d done enough travelling and it felt great to run a business back in the town.
“Cirencester’s a great town made even better by its’ people and down-to-earth pubs like The Brewer’s Arms.”
More about The Brewers Arms, Cirencester
Arkell’s goes overboard for Riverside pub
Swindon-based Arkell’s Brewery has bought the Riverside Pub at Lechlade-on-Thames, next to the most upstream marina on the River Thames.
Managing director, James Arkell, said: “This is an iconic riverside pub, and we are absolutely delighted to have been able to buy it.
“Everyone knows the Riverside, which lies next to the town’s historic Ha’penny Bridge, at the head of the River Thames in the beautiful Cotswold town of Lechlade. In the summer it’s the focal point of the town, attracting thousands of visitors. The good news is that it has never flooded, even when the Thames burst its banks elsewhere.”
Arkell’s is purchasing the pub, which includes 14 letting rooms and other ancillary buildings around the courtyard, from the Lloyds, a local family which has owned the site since 1959.
Nick and James Arkell with Tim Lloyd at The Riverside.
Tim Lloyd said: “I’m pleased that we are selling it to Arkell’s so it will continue under the stewardship of another local family. I know it will be in very good hands.”
Tim Lloyd will continue to operate the marina, next to the pub.
“Our immediate plans are to ensure a smooth takeover of the pub and give it a good spruce up,” added James. “After last year’s summer wash-out, we are anticipating a long, hot summer, so we’ll concentrate on redecorating the pub and making it ready for the holiday season.”
The brewery also owns the Thameshead at Kemble, the pub closest to the source of the river and the Talbot at Eynsham, also on the Thames.
Having lived for much of his life close to the River Thames, as his father has to the River Coln close by, James says: “I remember visiting the pub with my family and taking boats out on the river. It was a magical place then and it still is now. “
Arkell’s take over the pub on 28 March 2008.
History of The Riverside Pub
The small market town of Lechlade lies in Gloucestershire, close to the Oxfordshire border. The town played a part in the Cotswold wool trade and part of what is now The Riverside Inn was actually built as a wool store, probably in the middle ages. The town was a major trade route to and from London when cargo boats were loaded up with local wool and sailed down the river. Later the town formed part of the ‘Salt Way’ and the buildings were used to store salt from North Wales and then coal from The Forest of Dean. By the late 19th century, visitors were attracted to this very pretty town for fishing and boating.
When leisure boats finally replaced the old trading boats, the building became a marina and in the early 1960s the owners turned the buildings into a café with a fishing tackle shop attached.
Soon after, the café applied for a license and The Riverside Pub was born.
New landlord boxes clever at Cat and Fiddle
One of Cheltenham's biggest and best-known community pubs now has a new face in place, and he's determined to put the Arkell's pub back into the ring.
Commonwealth boxing bronze medal-winner and former solider Pat Lewis has taken over The Cat and Fiddle on Whaddon Road, Cheltenham, with his partner Caroline Kapesi.
The former boxer and father-of-three, who also owns Cheltenham Boxing Academy, is working with local brewery Arkell's to transform the pub into a hub of the local community.
"Whaddon is the biggest community in Cheltenham and we're determined to make this pub somewhere everyone wants to visit," said Pat, 44.
And just a few weeks after taking over, the pub's been repainted, recarpeted and local people who haven't set foot in the pub for years are coming in and playing pool, darts and getting to know each other again.
For Pat's partner, Caroline, who is an accountant, it's a dream come true.
Boxing Clever:
Pat Lewis and Caroline Kapesi outside the Cat and Fiddle, Cheltenham
"I've always wanted my own pub and The Cat and Fiddle has got so much potential, we can't wait to get it established," she said. "It's big, and since we've redecorated, it's bright and a lot more inviting than before."
Pat and Caroline are well-known in Cheltenham for the work Pat does at his boxing academy, where he offers young people in need of a little discipline the opportunity to try out boxing.
"At my gym, I offer a place to go and a safe environment. This pub's the same, although of course we don't allow boxing gloves here and our customers are over 18."
Pat and Caroline met during Cheltenham Race Week twelve years ago and fell in love immediately, and with the races just a few days away, they're ready for the race-goers who will be flooding into the pub, including boxing heros Rob McCracken and Errol 'bomber' Graham.
George Arkell, director at pub-owners Arkell's Brewery, said: "Pat and Caroline are just the sort of people who will make a success of The Cat and Fiddle and we're delighted they've become Arkell's landlords. A successful boxer and an accountant who are both great personalities: A perfect combination for a busy town pub."
More about The Cat and Fiddle, Cheltenham
Old Town bar celebrates 'Long' Service this year
Old Town's original and best-loved bar celebrates its 20th birthday this year.
Landlord Mike Sheridan, who worked at the pub for more than ten years before taking over as landlord three years' ago, is planning a year of celebration, including a party during the summer. “Perhaps we should have it in June, on the 'Long-est' Day," he says.
Long's Bar, on Victoria Road, has been owned by Arkell's Brewery since 1877. Originally called The Belle Vue, the brewery refurbished and renamed it Long's in 1988 when it became, and remains, Old Town's most popular bar.
Renamed Long's because it stretches back along the length of Union Row into Belle Vue Road behind, inside there is a bar, seating areas, conservatory and a separate cocktail bar.
James Arkell, managing director at Arkell's Brewery, says: “Long's continues to prosper because it's well supported by the local business and residential community and to maintain that attraction, it's successfully adapted to changing customer demands."
The smoking ban last year could have proved difficult for Long's, but instead landlord Mike brought in a first class chef to boost the bar's food offer.
In it for the Long's run:
Landlord Mike Sheridan and new Chef Shaun Presley
Mike explains: “The smoking ban was a challenge for all bars and pubs, but I thought I'd put it to our advantage. For customers who want to smoke, there's a pretty terrace where they can do it, but the rest of Long's is clean and smoke free – the perfect environment for fabulous food."
New Chef Shaun Presley, who has more than 20 years' experience, took over Long's kitchens a month ago, since when the demand for food has rocketed – including for the bar's unique 'goose fat fried chips', which he thinks are a first for Swindon.
Mike added: “We've suddenly become very popular with families for Sunday lunches," he said. “This is a new and welcome business, and very different from our week-day trade.
“2008's going to be Long's year, and we're already looking forward to the next 20."
History of Long's Bar:
Before it was renamed as Long's bar in 1988, The Belle Vue pub had a long history.
The building facing onto Victoria Road was once a brewery, built by Philip Cockbill in 1863 with The Belle Vue pub at the back of the building, facing onto Belle Vue Road.
Philip died in 1873 and his son, William, put the business up for sale. Arkell's stepped in to buy the building, eventually turning it round so that the beerhouse was on Victoria Road. The former pub at the back was put to various uses, at one time being utilised as the Royal Navy Club. Now the part facing onto Belle Vue Road is Long's cocktail bar and the old brewery at the front houses the main Long's Bar.
More about Long's Bar, Old Town
Local sporting heros make great landlords
Aston Villa and Swindon Town football legend Phil King carved a great new career for himself as an Arkell's landlord. So has speedway star Alun Rossiter and another former Swindon Town footballer Andy Rowland. Then there is former Gloucester Rugby player Nigel Scrivens at The Bee's Knees in Cirencester and boxer Pat Lewis who has just taken over at Arkell's pub The Cat and Fiddle in Cheltenham.
What is about sporting heros that make great landlords?
Phil King hung up his professional football boots in 2000, but has now built up The Dolphin in Swindon into one of the most popular pubs in town.
He said: “I'd been a football player from the age of 14 years old, playing for Swindon, Sheffield Wednesday and Aston Villa. It was all I knew and when my professional career was coming to an end I wanted to find something that would give me a buzz. I'd done pub relief work at one of Arkell's biggest pubs, The Moonrakers and really enjoyed it, so I approached the brewery and put my name down as a prospective landlord."
It wasn't long before the Swindon family brewery offered him the tenancy at another town pub where he almost doubled trade within the first few weeks.
A year later, a vacancy came up in a bigger Arkell's pub, The Dolphin, and Phil hasn't looked back.
King of the pumps:
ex-footballer Phil King is just one of Arkell's many sporting Landlords
Brewery director George Arkell thinks that sporting stars make good landlords because they relate to their customers in a similar way to their fans.
“Responsible sportsmen and women realize how important their fans are and treat them with respect. As landlords, this is translated into respect for their customers," he said.
Over the years a host of professional darts players, rugby players and other sports stars have stepped behind an Arkell's bar and the brewery always treats applications from former sports stars with particular interest.
“It's not just that they relate well to their customers," said George. “They also tend to be very sociable, organizing a host of pub activities. It makes the pub a community hub where everyone can get involved."
Phil King confirms this view. “We've got four pool teams, two darts team and five football teams – they're what keep the pub going during the quieter winter months," he said. Phil has also led trips abroad as well as to the local dog racetrack.
Most recently he dedicated six weeks of his life to organizing a 'footballing legends game' at Swindon Town football club where former national and international footballing stars volunteered to play, raising money for a local hospice.
“The event took over my life," he said. “I'd do it again, but not every year!"
Over at another Arkell's pub in Swindon,The New Inn, former speedway star Alun Rossiter is now co-promoter and manager of Swindon Robins speedway team and follows the same approach as Phil, allowing his enthusiasm of sport to infect his customers. In Cirencester, former Gloucester Rugby Club star, Nigel Scrivens, continues to be one of the town's most popular landlords at Arkell's pub The Bee's Knees.
George Arkell added: “The best landlords are those who keep run a tight but sociable pub, and that takes self-discipline - something that most sports stars have in abundance."
More about the Dolphin, Swindon
Peter Kay is our fantasy pub landlord
According to the Great British public, Peter Kay would make the best celebrity pub landlord.
Research undertaken by YouGov on behalf of the Independent Family Brewers of Britain (IFBB), a group of family-owned or run breweries across the UK, put comedian Peter Kay as the nation's favourite fantasy pub landlord, followed by actor and writer Stephen Fry. Radio 1 Breakfast Show DJ Chris Moyles came in third place.
And Chris Moyles wasn't the only DJ in the running for the title of best celebrity pub landlord, fellow BBC Radio 1 presenter Fearne Cotton was also chosen, as were BBC Radio 2 DJs Chris Evans and Russell Brand. Model Katie Price was also short-listed but only scored 4% of the votes.
Scott Waddington from the Independent Family Brewers of Britain said: “It seems that the nation likes a landlord who can make them laugh! And they've chosen wisely. A good landlord should have a great sense of humour, be sociable and fun and know how to make their pub the hub of the community. If Peter, Stephen or Chris ever wanted to try their hand at a new career, they'd be more than welcome behind the bar of any of our pubs."
George Arkell, director at Swindon-based Arkell's Brewery, said: “Over the years, we've had a number of our own local celebrity landlords at Arkell's, including international darts players, footballers, speedway racers and rugby players and there's no doubt that the customers enjoy having people they know behind the bar. And celebrities usually do very well too, because they're generally high achievers who have a strong work ethic and understand the importance of public support."
Peter Kay scored 34% of the nation's total votes as the perfect celebrity pub landlord. Stephen Fry was second with 17% and Chris Moyles took third place with 8% of all the votes. Chris Evans scored 6% and Fearne Cotton, Russell Brand and Katie Price were joint fifth with 4% of the nation's votes each.
Peter Kay was particularly popular with women and people aged 35-44 years old and was the top choice in all UK regions. Unsurprisingly, Bolton-born Peter scored a massive 48% of all votes in the Lancashire region. Stephen Fry was a popular choice for men and for Londoners. Chris Moyles proved more popular with women in the 18-24 year old category than men in the same category with 9% of all the votes. He was more popular in the North East of England than in any other region in the UK. He took second place in the voting behind Peter Kay in that region. In the London region, Chris Evans overtook Chris Moyles to secure third place in the London top three with 10% of the region's votes.
The YouGov Omnibus of 1,943 adults across the UK was commissioned as part of a campaign by the Independent Family Brewers of Britain to raise awareness of careers as a pub licensee. The Independent Family Brewers of Britain run 28 family-owned breweries and 4,500 pubs. All members' beers are brewed in time-honoured tradition to create the highest quality cask ale.
More about becoming an Arkell's Landlord
Arkell's brews up new conference venue
Swindon now has a unique business venue with the opening of a brand new conference room at Arkell's Brewery, Kingsdown, Swindon.
The Brewery House Conference room, which has been extended and refurbished by Arkell's to the highest standards, can cater for 60 people theatre style, or 32 conference style.
Facilities include air conditioning, wireless internet, computer and presentation equipment. French doors open out onto a pretty terrace overlooking the brewery's private garden. One facility completely unique to this conference venue is the offer of a tour of the brewery for conference delegates, and lunch at the brewery tap The Kingsdown Inn, next to the brewery. The conference room also has its own entrance off Beechcroft Road and an exclusive car park for conference room visitors only.
Nick Arkell, sales director at the brewery, said: “Last year we decided to refurbish and extend our company board room. When it was completed, the results were so stunning we decided not to keep it to ourselves and offered it to hire for local businesses."
Without any promotion, the new venue is already in demand with local businesses, and Nick says that word of mouth has guaranteed a steady stream of bookings since late last year.
Bring your business to the Brewery:
conference facilities now available at Arkell's
“Our conference booking manager, Marie Duckett, is complaining that we haven't built it big enough as she's had to turn down larger bookings," added Nick. “But this is a smart new conference location which has already been welcomed by many in the business community. We hope that it will become the venue of choice for those who want a private environment where they can work, but with the added attraction of being located in a building of historic interest which is home not only to one of the few family breweries left in the UK, but which also houses one of the finest examples of a Victorian steam brewery in the world."
Contact conference coordinator Marie Duckett at Arkell's Brewery on:
(01793) 823026 or email marie@arkells.com
40 years on, Arkell's painter has brush with retirement
He might not have painted the town red, but Graham Compton has painted every Arkell's pub in blue, green, cream and practically every colour under the sun since he started work at the brewery in 1968.
Now, after 40 years with a brush and paint pot in his hands, Graham is hanging up his overalls in the brewery paintshop before retiring, and he says that the first job he'll be doing is redecorating his own house - but not in brewery colours, he promises.
At a special party, thrown in his honour at Arkell's Brewery this week, with his family invited as special guests, managing director James Arkell paid tribute to one of the brewery's longest serving and most respected employees.
“Graham has been a huge asset to the brewery over the last four decades," he said. “He's seen interior design fashion come and go and tirelessly set about redecorating the same pubs again and again to suit the decade. He has been completely unflappable, however many times he revisits the same pub and became almost a brewery institution. All the brewery staff including our growing team of painters will miss him a great deal."
Painters Salute:
Arkells Decorator Graham Compton celebrates retirement with Brewery staff.
Over the last 40 years as the Arkell's estate of pubs has more than doubled to the present 106, so has Graham's team of painters, decorators and signwriters to its current total of eight. He explained: “I joined the brewery after working as a coach painter at Swindon's Great Western Railway works. Then, there were only 50 pubs and two of us to paint them, but since James came into the business as managing director, the brewery's estate has grown. When I started, the fashion was for wallpaper and carpets. That's now changed to paint and wooden floors, so over the last years as the carpets have been coming up, we've been stripping off the wallpaper and covering the walls with paint."
Graham now lives in Upper Stratton with his wife of 40 years, Angela. A Swindon man born and bred, he went to Pinehurst School and has two sons, Robert, a pensions adviser and Andrew, a plumber, and grandchildren.
Over the years Graham reckons he must have painted some of Arkell's pubs more than five or six times. “I've not painted the town red, but I've certainly done that to many of its pubs," he said.
Standing room only at The Bell
It's been standing room only at The Bell, Purton Stoke near Swindon since new landlords Jason and Jackie Pritchett took over last week.
The couple, who are new to the licensed trade, have been amazed at the response from locals.
“With all the talk of endangered rural country pubs, we'd thought that running a rural country pub would be a quiet affair which would give us the time to learn the business before having to cope with a full bar and a fully-booked Sunday lunchtime restaurant," said Jackie.
But they're not complaining. “It's great," added Jackie. “The community has come out in force to welcome us and we're trying to respond by giving them a warm, friendly pub where they can eat and drink in comfort.
“Our days are longer, but it's such a lovely pub that we don't mind at all," added Jackie.
George Arkell , director at Arkell's Brewery said: “Contrary to popular myth, not all rural pubs are closing down and many are thriving as landlords successfully adapt their business to the demands of their customers. The Bell at Purton Stoke is a really lovely little pub and it's supported well by those living in and around the village. We're delighted to welcome Jason and Jackie into the licensed trade and we're really pleased that they've made such a great start."
The Bell's a ringing success!
New landlords Jason and Jackie Pritchett.
Jackie and Jason have wanted to run their own pub for years but waited until now, until the right pub came along and their children were more independent. Jackie had worked in Cirencester for a company sourcing electrical components and Jason is a self employed roof contractor.
George added: “With Jason and Jackie's previous professional backgrounds we're sure they'll raise the roof and add a new spark to the pub."
More about the Bell, Purton Stoke
Santa 'Claw's' his way down Arkell's chimney
Climbing up a 100ft chimney in below zero temperatures the week before Christmas isn't everyone's idea of a satisfying job, but to do it dressed as Father Christmas is certainly beyond the call of duty.
However, that's just what Gary Williams, a Bristol-based steeplejack did today to help Arkell's Brewery kick off the festive season.
Gary, who works for LA Steeplejacks in Staplehill, Bristol is carrying out routine maintenance work on the 80-year old brewery chimney, the tallest in Swindon and was happy to celebrate Christmas with the brewery.
All in a day's work:
Father Christmas climbs the Arkell's chimney.
“It's not often you get the opportunity to play Father Christmas on such a tall chimney, and the extra bulk of the outfit was certainly welcome in this cold," he said.
Don Bracher, head brewer at the Swindon-based brewery, said: “Gary was a great sport, especially as we're brewing our seasonal beer, Noël Ale this week, so we were delighted to reward his sense of humour with a couple of crates of ale to take home."
Noël Ale was Launched in 1987 and named in honour of the present Chairman's father, Sir Noel Arkell, who was born on Christmas Day. The strongest of Arkell's Ales, this full-bodied beer is cleverly disguised by its distinctive light colour and slides down very easily, rather like the agile steeplejack, Gary.
Five star success for The Carpenter's Arms
Despite being flooded out during the infamous 2007 Summer rains, when The Carpenter's Arms at South Marston had more than two inches of water coursing through its ground floor, this Swindon pub has still won a five-star rating for its kitchens from Swindon Borough Council, one of very few pubs to receive five stars.
“It's been a tough few months," said landlord Bob Feal-Martinez. “Amongst other things, the pub's carpets were completely ruined and The Swindon Borough Council inspector came the same day as the new carpets were being fitted, so to receive five stars despite all our difficulties gave us a real boost."
Award Winning:
George Arkell presenting landlady Barbara and the Carpenters Arms staff their 5-star certificate.
For Arkell's Brewery, which owns The Carpenter's Arms, the flooding proved a challenge for a number of its pubs. Managing Director James Arkell said: “All our affected landlords rose valiantly to the challenge to stay trading as long as possible despite the flood waters, but Bob and Barbara Feal Martinez had to rise even higher with the inspector about to call. They worked especially hard and we recognise their strong commitment to keeping the doors open for their customers and pay tribute to their resilience."
George Arkell visited the pub this week to congratulate Bob and Barbara and their team, and present them with a certificate celebrating their achievement of a five star rating for food and hygiene despite the British weather.
More about the Carpenters Arms, South Marston
Returning home to a pub of their own
It's back home for a beer for new landlords John and Jacqui Bridges – ten years after they left Swindon to work in Pembrokeshire.
The couple have taken on their first pub tenancy at Arkell's pub The Fox and Hounds at Wroughton, near Swindon.
According to John, who has just retired from the MOD where he was responsible for security guards across five MOD sites in South Wales, his responsibilities haven't changed much: He's still listening to every else's points of view – but now his 'office' is behind a bar in a warm pub.
Back in Swindon:
John and Jacqui Bridges, the new landlords at The Fox and Hounds at Wroughton.
The couple decided to move the 164 miles back home after a decade in South Wales and spent months waiting for the right pub to come up.
Jacqui worked in hotels in Scotland, England and Holland as she followed her husband's job. She said: “We were prepared to travel anywhere in England for a pub we felt was right, when all along it was waiting for us back where we belong. The Fox and Hounds is perfect: A traditional pub with a big garden for the summer and best of all, serving local beer."
The couple moved in last week and have already set up some live music evenings, after Jacqui located and booked popular local bands over the internet.
James Arkell, at pub owners Arkell's Brewery, said: “It's always good to welcome back old friends to Swindon. John and Jacqui have swapped the South Wales weather for the warm breezes of the Wiltshire Downs and an equally warm welcome from the locals at the Fox and Hounds."
More about the Fox and Hounds, Wroughton
Arkells Volunteers for Service
Arkell's Brewery expressed its full confidence in the future of rural village pubs this week by buying The Volunteer Inn, in the Wiltshire village of Great Somerford.
The Swindon-based brewery, which paid £800,000 for the pub, is now investing further sums to bring it up to the high standards expected by its customers.
“It's a traditional village pub, in fact so traditional that parts of the inside hadn't been touched for fifty years," said brewery managing director, James Arkell.
The latest Arkell's addition:
Landlord Peter Prunty with Arkell's managing director James Arkell and director George Arkell outside The Volunteer, Great Somerford
The pub wasn't for sale on the open market, but Arkell's made a successful approach to the landlord. “We loved the pub, which has strong support from villagers as well as a number of great skittles teams and we especially loved the name," said James.
As a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, James has been a member of Britain's volunteer force, The Territorial Army, for many years, and earlier this year his son George, 26, followed family tradition by being commissioned into the local squadron of the same regiment. James' great grandfather was also a Wiltshire volunteer.
James said: “Over the last two years when we have made new purchases they have tended to be pubs or small hotels. Half our estate is made up of small village and country pubs and we intend to keep it that way – its pubs like these which are the lifeblood of the local community and they deserve support, especially if they are in a thriving village."
The Volunteer is based in the heart of Great Somerford, opposite the village stores. The village doesn't have its own hall, but Arkell's is already renovating the pub's skittle alley.
The pub also has new licensees who previously worked for Whitbreads and Morlands Brewery.
“This is a great opportunity for me and my family," said Peter, who moved into the pub with his family in early November.
“It's wonderful to be my own boss with the on-going support of a family brewery like Arkell's which understands better than most the way village pubs work and is prepared to make the investment."
This is Arkell's 107 th pub, and James is delighted with the reception that the village has already given to the pub and Arkell's Wiltshire-brewed beers.
“Great Somerford is a great village, and we think they deserve a Great Village Pub," added James
More about the Volunteer Inn, Great Somerford
Well-oiled sunflower wins competition
Swindon brewery boss George Arkell has clocked up more miles than he expected this year to judge Arkells Brewery's annual sunflower competition.
Every Spring, Arkell's invites all its 106 pubs to grow the tallest sunflower, and this year more landlords than ever took up the challenge.
Despite a disappointing sunflower-growing season, The Rat Trap at Stratton in Swindon scooped the prize, producing a sunflower measuring 12.' 2".
Head and shoulders above the rest:
Rat Trap Landlords Mark and Claire Richardson with their prize winning sunflower
Landlords Mark and Claire Richardson again applied their 'magic' ingredient - watering their plants using the excess beer (ullage) collected in beer drip trays.
"It works a treat," said Mark. "With all the wonderful, natural ingredients that go into a pint of Arkell's - malt, barley and yeast, I can't think of anything better to give the sunflowers, and it obviously works because we've come top this year."
Their sunflower wasn't as tall as the 15' sunflower they achieved last year, but they believe the unusual English summer which saw the sunflower-growing season start and finish later, was to blame.
Supersized Sunflower:
Royal Oak Landlord Craig Morse with his giant flower head
The St James Hotel in Cheltenham, which last year won the competition with their sunflower which measured an amazing 16' 1" this year had to make do with second place with a sunflower measuring 11' 9".
The landlord with the largest sunflower head was Craig Morse, who runs The Royal Oak at Lechlade.
His head measured over 15" wide. "It was great fun growing the sunflower," he said. "We've got a pretty, secluded courtyard behind the pub which is a real sun trap in the summer. If the sunflower had grown any bigger, we could have used it as a natural sunshade and not bothered with the umbrellas."
Mark and Claire Richardson received a barrel of Summer Ale and two garden umbrellas as their prize.
More about The Rat Trap, Stratton
More about The Royal Oak, Lechlade
Ron is over the moon with his driving
Drayman Ron Fisher celebrated twenty years of life on the open road this week, when Arkell's Brewery threw a special party for him and his family.
Over the last 20 years, Ron, 59, has driven well over half a million miles making sure that pubs and hotels across the South West of England receive their delivery of Arkell's beer from the brewery in Swindon.
James Arkell, managing director at Arkell's Brewery said: "At the rate of miles he's clocking up, Ron could have driven the Arkell's dray around the world every year for 20 years - or he could have driven to the moon and back once with a few miles to spare! That's a lot of miles - and a lot of beer."
John Williams, transport manager at Arkell's Brewery, said: "Ron's a great man to have on our team of eight driver drayman and one drayman's mate. Driving an Arkell's dray is one of the most important jobs at the brewery as they help us keep in daily touch with all our landlords, however far away they are."
Ron lives in Pinehurst, Swindon with his wife Mary and between them they have seven children and nine grandchildren - with another grandchild on the way.
20 years and counting!:
John Williams, transport manager at Arkell's Brewery with Drayman Ron Fisher
He said: "It's been a great career so far, and I've got a few thousand miles still to go I hope. Things haven't changed that much in 20 years - although we don't have a pint of beer at every pub along the route like they used to do in previous generations. These days it's more likely to be a bacon sandwich or a full English breakfast, depending on what the landlords have waiting for us when we arrive."
Whilst he loves a good breakfast, Ron points out that sometimes he and his fellow drayman can clock up more than a few breakfasts each day if they're not careful.
"Sometimes a run of three or four pubs in a row have gone to the trouble of cooking for us, and it would be very rude to refuse."
To keep fit, Ron and Mary have taken up line-dancing. "It's certainly different to the day-job," adds Ron.
At his celebratory party in Arkell's cellar bar, Ron received a cheque from the brewery in recognition of his hard work and long service, and a present of a freeview box.
And what a festival it was!
The sun may have taken a while to come through, but with the beer flowing, the jazz in full swing and a whole host of other attractions, the Arkell's Beer Festival was declared a 'huge success' once again by all those who enjoyed the day.
Over a thousand people descending on the Brewery to sample Arkell's family of tasty brews and more than 30 premium ales supplied by members of the Independent Family Brewers of Britain (IFBB).
That, and the chance for visitors to take the unique opportunity to tour around the Kingsdown brewery itself, one of the finest examples of a Victorian steam brewery anywhere in the world; discover how the brewery works and how real ale is made.
A display of classic vehicles including a vintage Rolls Royce, a Bentley, MGs, motorcycles, as well as a beautiful 1943 Austin K4 60-foot Fire Appliance, was also on offer.
Here are some pictures from the day.
Independent Family Brewers of the UK - website
Arkell's 2007 beer festival gets brewing
More than 30 Breweries from across the UK have promised some of their best brews to Arkell's on 8th September as the brewery gears up for its 2007 Beer Festival.
All the fun of the festival:
Arkell's chairman Peter Arkell getting into the swing of things at the Arkell's Beer Festival 2005
And beers aren't the only things on show this year. A vintage Rolls Royce, Bentley, motorcycles and live music are some of the other attractions promised, as well as a beautiful 1943 Austin K4 60-foot Fire Appliance.
The festival, on Saturday 8th September, will feature all Arkell's regular beers as well as guest beers from many members of the Independent Family Brewers of Britain (IFBB), and a number of other breweries.
Visitors to the beer festival will also have the unique opportunity to tour around the Kingsdown brewery itself, one of the finest examples of a Victorian steam brewery anywhere in the world; discover how the brewery works and how real ale is made.
Bookings for Brewery tours are now being taken, but must be pre-booked to reserve your space. Contact Arkell's Brewery directly on 01793 823026. The brewery grounds will also be open so visitors can tour around at their leisure and follow a specially laid out brewery walk.
James Arkell, managing director of Arkell's Brewery, said: "The Arkell's Beer Festival is a celebration of one of the oldest industries in Britain and certainly the oldest in Swindon. This is part of our country's heritage, of which we and our fellow brewers are very proud."
Festival details:
The Arkells' Beer Festival runs from 11:00am - 6.30pm on Saturday, 08 September 2007.
Entry costs £5, which includes a special commemorative glass.
Brewery tours must be pre-booked and cost £3 per person. To book, please call: 01793 823026.
Pre-payment is required.
Landlords water walk for charity
One landlord and three of his regular customers have set out on a mammoth 184-mile walk down the Thames, hoping to raise £5,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy campaign.
Steve Heath, who runs Donnington Brewery pub The Golden Ball in Lower Swell, and his three customers Roy Mercer, Gareth Adams and Brian Welfare set off from the source of the Thames at The Thameshead Inn, near Kemble, Cirencester on Thursday August 30, expecting to arrive at the Thames Barrier in London around lunchtime on 9th September.
The team was moved to do the charity walk when they heard about a customer's young son who suffers from Muscular Dystrophy.
Steve said: "He's a great kid but it's sad to know that he could be in a wheelchair by the time he's ten. Anything we can do to raise money to fight the disease seemed worthwhile to us."
Two pubs from fellow family brewery, Arkell's, are hosting the intrepid team for the first few nights of the walk. The Bear at Cricklade, and The Talbot and Eynsham are both on the route of the Thames walk.
Best Foot Forward:
The walking team preparing for the challenge with supporters outside The Thameshead Inn
James Arkell, who now owns Donnington Brewery and is managing director of Arkell's Brewery, said: "This is the first time we can remember that Arkell's Brewery landlords have welcomed a Donnington Brewery landlord and we're all happy to be supporting such a worthwhile cause. A nightly pint of real ale is certain to help them put their best feet forward every morning!"
Penny Weir, Regional Fundraising Manager for Wales and the West Midlands at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, said: "With recent breakthroughs in research bringing real hope to families affected by these life-shattering conditions, we are beginning to make ground in the fight against muscle disease. This sponsored event will not only be great fun for Steve, Roy, Gareth and Brian but will also make a valuable contribution to our fundraising campaign."
More than 30 supporters who had driven over 40 miles from Lower Swell joined James Arkell and his son George Arkell at The Thameshead Inn at Kemble to see the walkers off this week.
Follow the team's progress online
Duke puts landlord in the old brewery
Landlords Neil and Julie Hannis at The Duke Hotel at Hilmarton will no longer have to share their bathroom with guests after pub owners Arkell's Brewery spent £150,000 in upgrading this country inn by refurbishing the letting rooms and converting the old brewery buildings to new landlord accommodation.
The Grade-II listed building, built in 1843 - the same year as Arkell's Brewery, was bought by Arkell's in 1923 and because of its listed status; the brewery faced difficulties in bringing it up to modern accommodation standards, so much so that for many years the landlords and guests all had to share the same facilities.
Whilst that was acceptable in the early 1900s, it's now considered so 'last century' by today's travellers and over the last ten years the letting rooms had fallen into disuse.
Back to its best:
Landlord Neil Hannis stands outside the newly refurbished Duke Hotel at Hilmarton
James Arkell, managing director at Arkell's Brewery, said: "The Duke is a glorious building, and used to have its own brewery, called The Hilmarton Brewery, behind. The last beer was brewed there many, many years ago and since then the buildings have been used mainly as extra storage. We love the fact that The Duke is a special building but that gave us problems when we wanted to sympathetically renovate it up to today's high standards of accommodation, and to give everyone their own bathroom! It's always difficult upgrading listed buildings but we worked with our local conservation officer and English Heritage, and as a result we've achieved a result that we're all proud of."
Landlord Neil Hannis is delighted with the result. "We love our new home, and since the guest rooms have opened, they've been in increasing demand," he said. "For a pub like ours on a main road through a small village, it's important for us to be able to offer not only food and drink, but also good accommodation. Whilst we enjoy having guests in The Duke, we prefer not to see them before we're dressed. Now we don't have to!"
Editor's Note: It's thought that The Duke was built as a pub with its own brewery and was named after The Duke of Beaufort. Unfortunately the rather grand Duke of Beaufort objected to a pub being named after him and insisted that it was called a hotel!
More about the Duke Hotel at Hilmarton
Wet welcome for new landlords
When Paul and Michelle Gilbert took over the land-locked Jolly Tar at Hannington near Swindon, the last thing they expected was a high tide.
Unfortunately for them, last Friday, just two weeks after taking over behind the bar they had to deal with three foot high floods in the bar as rainwater poured into the pub from the fields behind.
Damp but undaunted:
Jolly Tar landlords Paul & Michelle Gilbert, with Arkell's chairman Peter Arkell
"We couldn't believe it," said Paul. "We'd only just put in new carpets, now we've lost around £15,000 in stock and equipment, but we hope to be open before this coming weekend."
Luckily, pub owners Arkell's were quick on the scene and their staff and suppliers have been busy helping Paul and Michelle get the pub back into a fit state to open.
"Edmont joinery and Austin Electrical all came out quickly to offer help to Paul and Michelle," said managing director James Arkell.
"They took over the pub at its busiest time of the year - the week before the International Air Tattoo at nearby RAF Fairford, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors then just a week later, along with thousands of others across the region; they were hit by the deluge last Friday," he added.
The Jolly Tar opened in 1855 and was named after a distant nautical relative of former local landowners. However, it was originally called The Cat and took over the license from the other village pub, called The Dog.
"'Cats and Dogs' and 'The Jolly Tar' - perhaps we should have read the signs," said James.
First time landlords Paul and Michelle are undaunted by their damp start to life behind the bar.
Underwater:
the scene at the Jolly Tar as the rains fell on 20 July 2007
"We haven't lost anything we can't replace - even the carpet, and both the Brewery and the local villagers have been really generous with their help," said Paul, who spent 22 years working as a chef for Swindon companies such as Motorola and Nationwide, including six years as executive chef at Intel and the last few years as Chef manager at Halcrow.
"We had a wonderful first two weeks before the rain and despite this setback, we can't wait to throw open our doors again. I've waited years to be my own boss, and it'll take more than a bit of rain to stop me now."
Floods in Swindon - more stories
Arkell's Landlord cup overflows thanks to pop star
Natasha Bedingfield presenting Arkell's Landlord at The White Hart at Stratton, Derek Rowlands, with a golfing trophy yesterday evening, when she visited the pub and played to 180 lucky fans.
Well done Derek!:
Natasha Bedingfield presents the landlord of the White Hart with his Arkell's golf trophy
Derek won the trophy yesterday at the annual Arkell's Golf competition and we persuaded Natasha to present him with the cup before her performance at The White Hart last night.
Live at The White Hart:
Natasha Bedingfield
Derek thought all his Christmas's had come at once. He said: "First of all I won the trophy by just one point against another Arkell's landlord, Phil King at The Dolphin at Rodbourne, then I was presented with the trophy by an international singing sensation - I don't think you can go any better than that in just a week!"
Natasha Bedingfield at the White Hart - video story
More about The White Hart, Swindon
Back to the future for The Winkfield Pub
New signs are going up at one of Winkfield's oldest pubs this week as The Original Slug and Lettuce is returned to its previous name of The Winkfield.
Incoming landlord Tim Kirkwood, who has taken over behind the bar with his partner Joy McDonnell, explained the decision: "I've always lived around here and whilst I appreciate that it has had a number of different names in its history - starting off as The Queen's Head, then The Slug and Lettuce; when I started coming here it was The Winkfield, or The Winky as we used to call it, and that's how everyone I know remembers it."
That's not the only thing that's going back to basics at this Arkell's pub. Tim and Joy have brought with them their long term friend and chef Darren Taiwo who has cooked all over the world. Darren is producing a new menu for the pub which he describes as 'Comfortable Food'.
Taking things back to the basics:
Chef Darren Taiwo, with Landlord and Lady Joy McDonnell and Tim Kirkwood.
"I cook good, wholesome food with great local ingredients," he said. "It's great to be running a kitchen in a pub owned by a family brewery like Arkell's because we share the same aim: To produce something using natural ingredients that tastes fantastic."
This is local businessman Tim's first time behind a bar with his partner Joy, but both of them have worked in the industry for many years.
George Arkell, director at Wiltshire-based Arkell's Brewery which bought The Winkfield five years ago, said: "We're delighted to see two such experienced professionals taking over at The Winkfield and it's great to see that they're not afraid to resurrect the pub's former name. Changing a pub's name can be fraught with difficulties, but as a local man, Tim and his partner Joy have done it because it's how everyone remembers it best and they're keeping the customers happy."
We'll never run a restaurant again, say new landlords
New landlords at The Plough at Stratton in Cirencester, Joe and Jane Bouaouni have vowed they'll never run a restaurant again.
Experienced restaurateurs but first-time landlords, Joe and Jane who took over at this Arkell's pub at the beginning of June, don't deny the long hours (they are up until their 1.30 closing times at the weekends), but say that pub customers are much friendlier than those in many large town centre restaurants.
Jane said: “When customers come into a busy restaurant, they can be cross, hungry and impatient – they just want their meal as quickly as possible before going elsewhere. Here, no one seems in a rush. A pub is great for getting to know your customers properly.
Enjoying life in a slower lane:
Jane Bouaouni, with son Zak, Assistant Manager Sam Holdford and Joe Bouaouni.
Joe and Jane have moved to the pub with their children, Yamina aged 6 and Zakaria, 2 ½ earlier this month, and it hasn't taken them long to settle down. Yamina has been enrolled at Stratton Primary School just up the road and they also promoted the pub's longest-serving member of staff, Sam Holdford, to assistant manager. “Sam's been here for nine years, probably longer than most bar staff in the town, she's been a great help to us since we took over, helped us settle in and introduced us to the locals," said Joe.
Jane and Joe decided to become landlords after many years spent working in the restaurant and night club business. Joe ran Swindon's The Apartment nightclub when it first opened in the mid 1990s, before taking over the management of a large town centre restaurant. He is now combining his new landlord duties with those of head chef at The Plough.
“The Plough is a rare find for us," he said. “It's a pub which belongs to the locals, and lots of them have been in to meet us since we took over a couple of weeks ago. Now we've got young children, we wanted a more settled way of life and The Plough felt right the minute we walked through the door."
George Arkell, director at Arkell's Brewery which owns The Plough, said: “The Plough is a perfect pub for a family, with its large garden and strong local community. Joe and Jane say they've been lucky to take over as landlords at The Plough, but we also think we've been lucky to find them."
Arkell's goes the extra mile to Calne
Draymen at Swindon-based family brewery Arkell's had to drive a few extra few miles this week as they delivered their first barrels of Arkell's Ale to Calne in Wiltshire.
The brewery has extended its pub estate further south into Wiltshire by purchasing the town's largest hotel, the historic 16th Century town-centre Lansdowne Strand Hotel, for in excess of £1.5 million.
This is the first property Arkell's has bought in the town, where a purchase by the brewery was long overdue, according to managing director, James Arkell.
First Delivery:
Arkell's Managing Director James Arkell with Draymen outside The Lansdowne in Calne
“We've been looking for a property in Calne for a long time," he said. “This is a pretty market town, one of the oldest towns in Wiltshire, which is currently experiencing a renaissance as the town centre becomes much more attractive for locals and tourists. We were delighted to be offered opportunity to purchase The Lansdowne, which has its own unique history."
The 26-bedroom hotel is thought to go back to 1536, and at the other end of the cobbled courtyard behind the hotel are the remains of a local brewery, which closed over 100 years ago.
“Whilst beautiful on the outside, the old brewery will require some care and attention from us as it has been largely neglected over the last few decades," said James.
Having taken over this Grade 2 listed building this month, Arkell's is repainting and restoring the hotel to its former glory and is welcoming locals and visitors back in.
“As a 160-year old family brewery, we hope we'll fit into the market town of Calne," added James. “We're delighted to be bringing our real ale here, although they have to travel just a few more miles from Stratton in Swindon rather than just across the courtyard from the old hotel brew house. Once again Calne has a family brewery in the Strand."
Summer Ale surge as sun shines!
The rain stopped falling and sunshine broke through last weekend as, for the thirteenth year in a row, Arkell's launched its Summer Ale.
This year Head Brewer Don Bracher took to the water in a dragon boat with the brewery's mascot, 'Pete the Pint', and Kevin McDonald, who works in Arkell's bottling plant, during the Challenge Swindon event at Coate Water Country Park near Swindon.
Arkell's Summer Ale was first brewed in 1994 as one of the brewery's earliest seasonal ales, launched in response to demands for a lighter ale suitable for the season. The 4% alcohol by volume light-coloured beer is brewed from specially selected malted barley and continental Styrian Golding hops. The Styrian hops give the beer a pleasant hop flavour without the characteristic bitterness of a typical pint of Arkell's beer.
All set for Summer:
Kevin McDonald, 'Pete the Pint' (aka Brian Curtis) and head brewer Don Bracher
James Arkell, managing director at Arkell's Brewery, said: “Summer Ale has become such an established part of our family of beers over the years that if our customers had their way, it would be Summer all year round because the beer's so popular."
Brian Curtis, who works in Arkell's Brewhouse, was volunteered to dress up as Pete the Pint for the third time. The day was so hot that he didn't have any difficulty in finishing off a Pint of Summer Ale after the launch photograph was taken.
Arkell's Summer Ale is now available in all Arkell's pubs across the South West and at other outlets. Call Arkell's Brewery on 01793 823026 for more information.