Runnymede and Weybridge MP and Secretary of State for Defence Philip Hammond got a taste of life behind bars to celebrate an Egham pub getting back in business.
The MP visited the Red Lion, on High Street, to celebrate its re-opening following a major investment of £350,000 by leaseholders Ascot Inns in partnership with Punch Taverns, one of the UK’s leading pub companies.
The Punch Taverns pub, which was closed for five weeks whilst a refurbishment took place, re-opened on 7th March.
Licensee Vince Healy took Mr Hammond on a tour of the premises and then invited him behind the bar to pull a pint.
Mr Hammond said: “I was very pleased to visit the Red Lion and to see the transformation at first hand. It is good to see that the pub has retained its original features and I was able to see the enthusiasm among those enjoying what the pub has to offer, as this important building at the heart of Egham is brought back into use.
“I wish Vince and the team all the very best in their impressively refurbished premises.”
Vince was delighted with the pub’s positive start and Mr Hammond’s visit to the pub: “It’s great to see a local MP supporting and showing an interest in the leisure and hospitality industry, especially as there has been such pressure on the sector in recent years,” he said.
“The opening weekend was really busy and the new look has been well-received. The covered and heated patio area proved to be particularly popular on the opening evening. The menu is also proving to be a real winner and the range of bar snacks has been an instant hit with our customers. I expect our drinks selection to go down well as our extensive range of wines and real ales shows we are determined to cater for a wide spectrum of tastes.
“The pub forms an important part of our local community and I know the Red Lion was missed while it was out of action. It is great to open the doors and welcome customers old and new.”
Mark Bicknell, Punch Taverns’ Partnership Development Manager for the Red Lion, commented: “I want to thank Mr Hammond for visiting the Red Lion. The Red Lion 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.”
Red Lion, 52 High Street, Egham, TW20 9EW