Swindon brewer Arkells has appointed the country’s first brewery community liaison manager. Richard Turner, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the brewing industry, will work with Arkell’s rural pubs to help them build links with parish councils and communities to sustain rural and pub life.The 168-year-old brewery has made the move as rural pubs struggle against ever-rising costs and difficult trading conditions.
Brewery chairman James Arkell said: “With rural post offices and village stores closing, the role of the village pub is changing and there are opportunities for these pubs which weren’t there before. “If new initiatives are supported by the local community they could improve a pub’s viability and reintroduce local amenities which have been lost. Richard will work with the local community and pub landlord, to identify what is and isn’t practical and make viable initiatives happen.”
Richard, who retired as Arkell’s free trade director several years ago, added: “The current issues facing rural pubs aren’t new but have been exacerbated over the last few years with the spiraling cost of utilities, staff and the smoking ban.
“Where local post offices have closed, a number of Arkell’s pubs have already taken the initiative to offer rural postal services. Others sell essentials such as milk, bread, eggs and daily newspapers. This benefits everyone. We are encouraging input and support from local communities where this has yet to happen.”
Richard will also work directly with pub landlords to secure rural rate relief and reduce energy and utility costs. Other initiatives such as alternative uses for a pub will also be considered.
“Creative, lateral thinking is needed and that’s where we hope local communities will come forward,” he said.
The local community is already firmly on board at the Rose & Crown, Ashbury, near Swindon. The pub, which has a restaurant and accommodation, is being run by relief landlords Barry Barker and Malin Ricknell who have been so impressed with village support they are considering applying to take over the license permanently.
When the previous landlords announced they were leaving in February, Arkells invited the village to tell them what they wanted from their local pub. At the first meeting the pub was packed with more than a hundred locals and a village steering committee has been established to share ideas and support the brewery.
Leading the steering group is local man Steve Treadwell, who said: “The Rose & Crown is woven into the fabric of our community. It is the hub of the village and we are delighted to be able to work with Arkell’s to find the right tenant.”
