Sharp’s beer sommelier, Ed Hughes (left) with Paul and Emma Ainsworth

Sharp’s has announced that Paul and Emma Ainsworth are to take over the lease of the brewery’s Mariners pub in Rock, Cornwall, following the departure of fellow chef and friend, Nathan Outlaw.

The Mariners is located across the Camel Estuary from the Ainsworths’ four other businesses in Padstow — Michelin starred No 6, Rojano’s in the Square, boutique hotel Padstow Townhouse, and Mahé Cookery School and Chef’s Table (opening May 2019). The Mariners is currently closed for its annual break and will re-open in early spring under Ainsworth.

He said: “Emma and I are thrilled to be taking over The Mariners in partnership with Sharp’s Brewery. When the opportunity arose, we knew straight away that we had to take it. 2019 will very much be the ‘discovery phase’ — learning what works and what doesn’t — with a refurbishment planned for 2020.

“Nathan has done a fantastic job over the past five years, and we certainly have big shoes to fill. We’re incredibly excited for what the future holds and are committed to ensuring the long-term success of The Mariners and keeping this Cornish jewel a destination for the local community and holidaymakers alike.”

Ed Hughes, beer sommelier at Sharp’s Brewery, added: Paul and his team have been great supporters of Sharp’s Brewery over the years and we can’t wait to work together on this new joint venture. We at Sharp’s are committed to producing quality beer from our brewery in Rock, just a mile up the road from the iconic Mariners pub. We also happily acknowledge that our skills and expertise lie in brewing beer, so, to have such an amazing team running the front of house and the kitchen is a dream come true.

“I know the importance of The Mariners to the local community as I myself grew up nearby and, together with Paul and his team, I can’t wait to welcome people through the doors when we re-open in spring. With stunning views of our home on the Camel Estuary, there’s nowhere better to enjoy great beer and great food with friends.”