In west Cornwall, a famous, multi-award-winning brewpub is re-opening today, welcoming its community back with a big line-up of cask beers.
After many years in the hands of big pub companies, The Star Inn, Crowlas, was purchased by Pete Elvin and Tracey Cornelius in 1999, and in subsequent years the addition of the Penzance Brewing Co, in former stables behind the pub, made it a national destination for beer lovers.
Sadly, Pete died in 2023 and the family took the decision to close the pub the following spring. But now local couple Paul and Jane Badcock, who already run the popular Packet pub in nearby Rosudgeon, are re-opening The Star with a new look, today (12th December) at noon.
A refurbishment project has delivered a new-look pub, with a new entrance, refreshed decoration, and a revised bar, with feature copperwork. The kitchen, which has been closed for several years, is being fired up again, with pub classics to accompany the popular beer.
Paul and Jane have placed emphasis on using local businesses to help them with the work, including KC Renovation Treatments, Edwards & Coombes Electrical Contractors, R H Signs, and Kirby & Sons Carpentry.
Throughout the closure, Penzance Brewing Company has been continuing operation and going from strength to strength, the highlight being the winning of the Campaign for Real Ale’s national Champion Beer of Britain competition with Mild.
Brewer Lewis Elliott and assistant Richard Hickman have been brewing all the popular Penzance beers, such as Potion No 9, Trink, and Scilly Stout, as well as adding new brews to the portfolio. Look out for a new ale to be released when The Star re-opens.
Local resident and long-time Star regular Tommy Williams will cut a ribbon to re-open the pub this Friday, 12th December, at noon. There will be six Penzance beers on the bar from the start, joined by four more on a brewery bar during the afternoon.
“Jane and I are so happy to be given the chance by Tracey to re-open this iconic village pub,” said Paul. “Pete was a good friend and helped us, as farmers, 17 years ago to re-open The Packet, in Pete’s unique style!
“Crowlas needs a pub, not just to drink but for people to meet and socialise. From new-born, all ages will be welcome, especially four-legged friends! “We have a passion for Penzance Brewery and great home-cooked food. We can’t wait to re-open those doors.”
