LANDLORDS of the White Hart in Corsley, Adelle Gill and Steve Ellis, are celebrating one year behind the bar.
The couple opened the doors to the pub last September, promising an exciting ‘interactive’ experience at the pub, ‘fairly’ priced food and drink, and Steve’s ‘famous’ Yorkshire puddings – but neither could predict what would happen six months on, when a virus put the world into lockdown, shutting the pub down on Adelle’s birthday.
But instead of letting the virus beat them, the couple launched a food delivery service to help support the community.
Adelle and Steve said, “What a crazy year it’s been! I don’t think anyone could have predicted the rollercoaster that is 2020! After our six-month anniversary we were locked down due to Covid-19. During this time we offered a Corsley fried chicken drive through (CFC), along with Sunday lunch deliveries.
“We also did our part for local businesses, feeding frontline workers such as ambulance drivers, shop workers and vulnerable people that live alone, such as the gentleman that lives in Frome that we fed on Christmas Day. He has been receiving lunch from us since the beginning of lockdown. We’re not sure he even knows it’s from us, but we look forward to seeing his face every Sunday. We have been donating to local dog charities who have been hit hard by Covid. Now we are back open, we are working hard to protect our staff and customers by being Covid safe. We also have delivered Corsley fried chicken (CFC) to B&M Frome and Mole Valley workers during lockdown.”
Now back open – coincidentally reopening on Steve’s birthday – the pub is preparing to celebrate its first anniversary on Saturday 5th September.
The couple said, “The White Hart has grown so much in a year, we have been really tested and are very proud to still be here.
“We are looking forward to another fantastic year and have big plans for the pub and our future. We will be offering discounts on drinks on September 5th, alongside our big birthday give away event. We are planning to give away prizes every hour to celebrate. Sadly, there will be no live music at the pub until Wiltshire Council /we deem it safe to do so.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that’s been a part of our year so far, for all your help and support. A massive thank you to all our staff – you have exceeded our expectations, you have become family!
“Please join us on the 5th of September to raise a glass to a great country pub/ restaurant.”
