An iconic South Hams, Devon, inn has re-opened following a £1m refurbishment by St Austell Brewery, creating 50 full- and part-time jobs.
Local boy Chris Roberts returned to the area in 2014 with his wife, Ashleigh, and two young daughters to become manager of the Hope and Anchor at Hope Cove and to lead the redevelopment of the popular and successful inn. The venue will be open to the public just in time for the start of the Easter school holiday.
The new jobs at the 11-bedroom inn have largely been taken by local people. The pub has received a full refurbishment of all public areas which will create a light and airy open-plan space. The outdoor deck area, overlooking the beach and Bigbury Bay, has also been increased substantially, giving it capacity to seat over one hundred people.
The refurbishment has retained key features including the old galleon fireplace and exposed stonework, while the interior design also celebrates the history of the village and the pub by displaying many photos taken locally over the last 100 years.
Chris said: “We are extremely excited about the refurbishment of the Hope and Anchor that has been going on over the winter. The Hope and Anchor has been completely transformed and updated while remaining true to its heritage and the community we serve. We are all especially excited by the new eco-friendly open-theatre kitchen where customers can see their food orders being prepared using many fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
“As a local boy, I am delighted the Hope and Anchor has given me and my family the opportunity to move home and that the pub can offer 50 jobs to people in the area. The Hope and Anchor is still a village pub at its heart, just better and more comfortable with a fantastic new menu. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back and hope people will enjoy the new look for this lovely old pub.”
