MyNewPub

Featherston Arms

Kirkoswald, Cumbria

Agent: Kings Business Transfer

First-time pub buyers Jennifer and Glen Mossop have been very busy at the Featherston Arms. The Bolton couple have significantly boosted turnover and completely refurbished the pub over the past few months.

Jennifer is a former secondary-school English teacher and Glen was a retail manager for B&Q. "Neither of us were happy in our jobs and location so we thought getting away from it all in a quiet rural area would be the best thing to do and it certainly was - we're really enjoying it here," said Jennifer.

The pub benefits from good local trade all year round and a strong tourist trade in the summer months. Business is split 70:30 in favour of wet and the Featherston Arms offers three real ales at any one time.

Jennifer said: "Real ale is very important to the business. We have completely refitted the cellar with brand new equipment and are currently seeking Cask Marque accreditation."

She is running the catering side of the operation with the help of a few part-time workers. The menu is described as traditional pub grub and includes regional dishes such as Cumberland sausage and mash with onion gravy.

Jennifer has experience working in pubs and on accounts and most of the money made is going back into the business.

"The pub was pretty bleak and old fashioned when we first came in - it was in need of some serious TLC but I think we're getting there now," said Jennifer.

The couple's major project is the large outdoor area which they are planning to completely overhaul, adding a music system, a lighting system, swinging benches and a children's play area. The work is due to be completed by spring this year.

The building includes two bars, a 32-cover dining room, six letting bedrooms and two-bedroom living accommodation.