MyNewPub

Sun Inn

Feering, Essex

Andrew Howard has become Shepherd Neame's youngest licensee, taking over the helm at the Sun Inn, in Essex, at the age of 20. The traditional pub was acquired by Shepherd Neame a few weeks ago and, as the pub's new licensee, Howard is now keen to find out whether he is Essex's youngest landlord.

"I'm delighted to have fulfilled my ambition to be a landlord and I think I'm probably Essex's youngest licensee," he said. The former bar manager, from the nearby village of Kelvedon, hopes to retain the pub's unique, old-fashioned charm.

Andrew said: "The Sun Inn is a typical English country pub: it has a warm atmosphere, a great selection of well-kept real ales and traditional pub games - and no televisions, games machines or loud music. Having managed the bar here for a year and a half, I think the most important task for me is to retain the pub's character."

Howard did a one-year course in catering and spent a further year learning about hospitality management.

The Sun Inn boasts a bar area with open fires and oak beams and serves a range of Shepherd Neame ales including Spitfire, Bishops Finger, seasonal ales and guest ales.

The property comprises a dining area serving traditional dishes such as pies and roasts, using ingredients sourced from within a 15-mile radius. There is a large garden with seating for 40 people and good-sized car park.