Meals and wheels for pub's diners

Diners at the Helsby Arms in Cheshire need never worry about getting a taxi or leaving their cars parked outside the pub overnight again.

The pub's rural location makes it difficult for customers to get to without driving so to make sure nobody misses out a free taxi service is now being offered.

Licensees Stephen and Carole Currie brought in their courtesy car last month and customers who book a meal can now also book a free ride to and from the pub.

Stephen explained: "We are not quite in the middle of nowhere but we are on the outskirts of Chester. If we have got customers living a few miles away it costs them £5 or £6 for a taxi each way.

"We thought we could give customers a lift and get some free advertising out of it as well."

And so far the free service has proved popular.

"There were two or three in the first week and six at the weekend, I hope there aren't too many more or I will be in the car all the time," added Stephen.

Stephen, who used to be an accountant, and former environmental health officer Carole took on the Punch Taverns pub three years ago.

A major redevelopment helped boost trade but the couple are always looking for new innovations.

"The last year has been tough and we have suffered like anybody else, that's a reason for the car and why we are always keen to try new things," said Stephen

Customers can also sign-up to a loyalty card scheme and enjoy special occasion celebration packages which include a three course meal and, naturally, a lift to and from the pub.