Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Riverside pub taken over
ARIVERSIDE pub in Bristol which was saved from the brink of closure five years ago has been taken on by a major brewery.
In 2014, a team of determined friends took over the reins of The Lamplighters in Shirehampton when it was completely derelict and revitalised the pub.
But now, having turned the historic building into an important community asset which also hosts live music, the team of Dominic GundryWhite, his wife Kathie and Norman Routledge have called time at the bar with Cornwall-based brewery St Austell, which owns over 150 pubs in the South West, taking over.
As of yesterday the new tenant is James Sleeman, who said he is excited about the journey ahead.
“I’m really looking forward to taking over the Lamplighters and working with the people here,” he said.
“It is a really nice pub and it’s incredibly community-led; it’s very much a local hub and fondly looked upon by the people here.
“Over the summer we want to make better use of the lovely outdoor space and put on events for the community to enjoy.
“We are also looking to improve the menu, which we will be doing over the coming weeks.”
Pub manager Richard will remain at the helm and work under the guidance of James, who brings a wealth of experience to the business.
Steve Worrall, retail director at St Austell Brewery, said: “St Austell Brewery has an ongoing acquisition strategy to strengthen its award-winning estate of pubs and hotels across the South West and we are delighted to be able to announce the Lamplighters in Shirehampton as the latest addition to the wider St Austell Brewery family.”
Mr Gundry-White sent a message to regulars on the Friends of the Lamplighters Facebook page.
He said: “After almost five years of what’s been quite a journey taking The Lamplighters from a derelict pub to what we hope you all feel is a great community asset myself, Kathie & Norman can confirm that the sale of the pub to St Austell brewery completed yesterday.
“We would all like to pass on our gratitude to all of our brilliant customers who have helped make The Lamps what it is today and supported us all the way through.
“We have met some great people and made some great friends inthe process. Once again, thanks for all of your support and custom and we look forward to having a pint with you but next time as punters.