A husband and wife team are toasting success after running a community pub in Wrexham for more than two decades.
Chelly and Mark Jones at the Stanton House, Chirk
Mark Jones has operated the Stanton House, in Chirk, Wrexham, since 2001. His wife, Chelly, joined him behind the bar in 2015. Mark’s aunt and uncle owned the building before his dad transformed it into a public house, which was then acquired by Hydes Brewery.
Mark and Chelly have worked very closely with Salford-based brewery and pub company, turning the pub from a busy community establishment into a popular pub and restaurant. The venue underwent an extensive refurbishment last year.
Additional recent investment from Hydes means the pub can host its first live music and beer festival. Stanton Festival, on 18th May, will feature live music and entertainment from local bands, with a barbecue, outside bar, and family activities. The couple plan to make the festival an annual event.
“The support we have received from Hydes, especially over the past five years, has allowed us to fully realise the potential this pub has to offer,” said Mark.
“We have the freedom to implement our own ideas, from home-cooked food to planning events and entertainment, and can rely on Hydes to support us every step of the way. It’s a fantastic example of family run businesses working very effectively together to deliver outstanding results.”
Chelly added: “The financial support we’ve received from Hydes has been crucial, at a time when the entire hospitality sector has struggled. Flexible payments, generous financial support, and lots of other extras have enabled us to make the pub a roaring success against the backdrop of a very challenging economic climate.”
Managing director of Hydes, Adam Mayers, said: “We’re happy to provide ongoing support to our tenanted pubs and investment in the form of a refurbishment is just one way that we can help to drive the business and provide support through challenging economic periods.
“As a very popular pub that plays a vital role in the local community, we’re committed to ensuring the long term survival of pubs such as The Stanton House.”