Chef duo step in to rescue village pub
A VILLAGE pub has been saved from closure by two of Ashbourne’s best-known chefs.
The Saracen’s Head at Shirley is due to reopen tomorrow, ending a period of uncertainty for its regulars, who feared it might become another victim of the pandemic.
Its former owners Robin and Terri Hunter announced last year they were stepping down from their hugely successful gastropub, and it prompted concern that new owners might not come forward to take over the business in such a challenging climate for the industry.
But Ashbourne-based chef duo Laura and Pete Dale, who have run some of the most successful kitchens in the town, recognised the huge loss the closure would be, not just for villagers, but also for the staff and suppliers involved.
So the couple, who head up The Green Man and Jack Rabbits in Ashbourne, and who recently opened Wine Bar 33 in St John Street, felt they were in an ideal position to take on the challenge of keeping the Saracen’s Head open.
They say their big decision to take on another licensed venue was strengthened by their experience of launching a new hospitality business during the pandemic.
Pete said: “We know how hard Robin and Terri have worked to make this place such a successful and popular pub, so we are absolutely determined to maintain those high standards.
“We also felt it was vital that we kept on their current team, including Terri’s mum and their 16-year-old son, so customers will feel the same warm welcome that they always have.” The pub’s experienced chef, Katie Allsobrook, says she is excited to be involved in the relaunch, promised to keep the menu’s popular items on offer and she is looking forward to developing new dishes under Pete’s guidance.
To ensure a smooth transition and handover, both Robin and Terri will be working alongside Pete and Laura for the launch, which is due to happen tomorrow.
Robin says he is delighted Pete and Laura are going to be the new owners.
He said: “We’ve been friends for years and we know they will be made to feel very welcome by all our customers.”
The pub’s popular side business, the Church Lane Deli, which is situated in a former stable building, will also be returning, offering its usual selection of meats, cheese, bread and freshly-prepared ready meals.