THE Frome community can celebrate as their local pub, The Royal Oak, has been re-opened and refurbished by experienced publicans Chris and Marion Pitcher, who welcome you warmly to their freehouse.
Chris and Marion Pitcher stepped in to save the grade 2 listed building from being sold and made into housing.
After purchasing the pub in January this year, nothing inside the 200 year old building was salvageable apart from the fireplace, therefore the whole building has now been stripped of furniture and carpets and renovated.
Chris and Marion are no strangers to pub renovations. Together they own five other pubs with over 30 years in the trade. They also own an Indian Restaurant.
Chris said, “We have gained a great reaction from the locals so far, they couldn’t wait to get in the door! We opened at 5pm one evening and by 5pm it was packed!
“We really want to emphasise the sense of community here, create a great atmosphere. Being full of locals, everyone knows each other and it’s a great place for people to catch up over a beer.
“We will serve craft beers, real ciders, different lagers and even invite guest ales that will change from time to time, we even have a Royal Oak best bitter! We want the customers to have a range to choose from.
“We are also hoping to bring back local darts teams and set up a cribbage team, so will be looking for players to represent the pub!”
Marion added, “We just want to give a big welcome to everyone and we are both very excited to meet you all. It’s like the locals are claiming back part of their community and it’s great to be involved.”
The pub officially opened on Thursday 18th April ready for the Easter period. Initial opening times are Monday-Friday 4pm and 12noon on Saturday and Sunday. They also have televisions with Sky and BT Sports for all your sporting entertainment.
To lend a hand at The Royal Oak, they welcome manager Mel Turner who will ‘captain the ship’ and be ready to welcome in the community from early May.
