Little Windsor,
Sutton
The Little Windsor is off the crowded high-street circuit in Sutton, so it has to offer something different, particularly to attract lunchtime trade from the thousands of office workers based nearby. Licensees Alan and Jacqueline Cresswell's novel idea is to offer a free lunchtime buffet for parties of 10 or more and Tempest is heartened to see a crowd from an engineering firm tucking into sandwiches and nibbles such as chipolata sausages. Tempest remarks: "It is a relatively low cost operation, but has a high perceived value to customers." Alan Cresswell is more blunt: "If I didn't do it and have offers like any draught beer for £1.95' or £2 off jugs until 5.30pm', I'd be sitting here on my own."
On Mondays and Tuesdays the Windsor also holds bridge and quiz nights and Tempest is reassured to hear they are doing nicely.
The strategy adopted by the Cresswells appears to be working at the small community pub and is underlined when they and Tempest start talking beer volumes, which have shown a healthy increase over the past year with London Pride leading the way with 145 barrels.
When the form filling for the premises licence is done, the trio get down to talking about current issues.
Problem 1: The Cresswells want more Carling glassware plus Fuller's generic pint glasses that are lined at half-a-pint to serve regulars who want a light and bitter.
BDM's response: Tempest promises action.
Problem 2: The husband and wife team then bring Tempest's attention to a letter from the local water company demanding the pub is inspected to prove conformity to the Water Bye-laws. It's likely that the inspection will cost Fuller's money.
BDM's response: Tempest promises to take the issue up at head office, adding: "This is the first one we've had, but it could open the floodgates to many more. It is an overhead we don't need especially at this time because of the new Licensing Act."
Two months later: Alan Cresswell reports he has received the glassware and the premises licence has been sent to the solicitor. Fuller's is dealing with the water company directly because it is the landlord's, not the tenant's, responsibility.
Licensee's verdict: "Tim is very good and he lets you get on with your job."
