Bridgwater and West Somerset MP Mr Ian Liddell-Grainger got a taste of life behind bars to celebrate a Bridgwater pub getting back in business.
The MP visited the Duke, on High Street, to celebrate its re-opening following a major investment by leaseholders Aiden Croker, Stephanie Mee and Paul Russell in partnership with Punch Taverns, one of the UK’s leading pub companies.
The Punch Taverns pub, which was closed for four weeks whilst a refurbishment took place, re-opened on 24th January.
On 18th February, licensees Aiden Croker, Stephanie Mee and Paul Russell took Mr Liddell-Grainger on a tour of the premises and then invited him behind the bar to pull a pint.
Ian said: “I am very pleased to visit The Duke and see the transformation at first-hand. It is good to see that the pub has retained its character and remained in keeping with the sports bar branding that makes it so popular.
“It has a loyal following in the community and they are happy to have their pub back. I wish Aiden and the team all the very best in their impressively refurbished premises.”
Aiden was delighted with the pub’s positive start and Mr Liddell-Grainger’s visit to the pub: “It’s great to see a local MP supporting the pub industry, especially as there has been such pressure on the sector in recent years,” he said.
“The launch was really busy and the new look has been well-received. Customers like the new décor and the fact we have built on the live sports and entertainment.
“The new food menu is proving really popular – especially the pizzas – with many commenting that it is good value. We have plans to host two – three bands over the weekend, introduce loyalty cards and as we get busier look to hire more staff.
“The pub forms an important part of our local community and I know the Duke was missed while it was out of action. It is great to open the doors and welcome customers old and new.”
Kevin Day McDonnell, Punch Taverns’ Partnership Development Manager for the Duke, commented: “I want to thank Mr Liddell-Grainger for visiting the Duke. The Duke is a great example of a pub at the heart of the community which sets high standards in all areas of the business.
“Following the successful launch, the pub is performing well and I expect this to continue as the team have some great plans.”