London
Teddington Arms
Teddington, Middlesex
When the Teddington Arms opened nearly four years ago, one of the key objectives was to cement relationships with the local community. It didn't take long before the pub's proximity to the home of English rugby, Twickenham, and the general fervour for the game in Middlesex led to the obvious conclusion that rugby could help foster a community spirit within the new outlet.
Sponsoring local teams
This led to the pub becoming involved in sponsoring Teddington Youth Rugby, which has 800 players. The Capital Pub Company managed house has, for the past four seasons, been the main sponsor of the club's annual mini tour, with youngsters aged between six and 12 playing against sides around the country. Around 300 players, parents and siblings go on the tour, helped by a donation of £2,000 from the Arms.
Rugby players aren't the only beneficiaries, as manager Paul Belcher explains. "We also sponsor Teddington Cricket Club and have recently started sponsoring Langdon Park, a local football club."
Returning the favour
He adds: "In return, all of the teams eat and drink in the Arms, creating a great local feel." To promote interest in the teams to a wider audience, a notice board near the front door gives all the news about how they are faring.
Legless for a good cause
In addition to sponsorships, the pub is heavily involved in fundraising for local charities. Last year, the Arms raised over £700 for a local hospice by competing in the annual pram race organised by Teddington Lions Club. Paul remarks with a grin: "While the others raced around the circuit, we ambled around so that we had more time to collect money. We called at most of the local pubs for a drink as well as collecting money from the people inside. We were almost legless by the time we finished."
Paul says factors in the pub's popularity are the quality of the food and drink offerings and the high service standards of the staff. "We are the local people's first choice for parties, get-togethers and dinners."
