King's Head couple call last orders

After 25 years at the King's Head in Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex, proprietors Richard and Hilary Barnes have sold the business in order to enjoy a well earned retirement from the licensed trade. The King's Head, a substantial detached property dating from the late 17th century, has been acquired by InnSpired Pubs plc for its growing estate of tenanted pubs. Offers in the region of £395,000 were sought for the freehold by the Ipswich office of Christie & Co. The present division of trade is about 60% bar, 40% catering, and there is scope to introduce letting accommodation, subject to the necessary planning consent. The property comprises lounge and public bars, conservatory, four-bedroom owner's accommodation and extensive grounds with outbuildings, beer garden, private garden, paddock and car park. Bill Colquhoun, associate director of Christie & Co, said: "We were delighted to handle the sale of the King's Head on behalf of Richard and Hilary Barnes after their 25 years of occupation. "The pub attracted enormous interest from both private and corporate operators, reflecting the high ongoing demand for privately owned freehold pubs in the region. "One of the reasons for the decline in the number of freehouses currently available is the appetite of the pub operating companies to acquire quality freehouses for conversion to leasehold. Another reason is the fact that pubs are generally trading well and so owners are not inclined to sell.