My New Pub Speed the Plough

Sonia Bessant and Sarah Tombs

Tibberton, Worcester

Sonia Bessant has swapped feeding inmates at Hewell Grange prison for punters at a 17th-century canalside pub.

The former chef has taken over at the Speed

the Plough, along with

her business partner,

Sarah Tombs, formerly a housing officer.

But neither is experiencing a quieter life. Tombs said: "The first two or three weeks were particularly tough, and I didn't realise your feet can actually go numb."

The pub is popular with the locals of Tibberton, and does good trade with those passing by on their canal boats.

The introduction of hot meals and snacks has been met with delight by the regulars.

Tombs said: "It's not a gastropub, but a small, friendly outlet with a remarkable atmosphere. We serve traditional pub meals, available for between £6 to £10."

The pair have plans

to ensure the pub serves the community well into the future, with the local cricket and darts teams expressing a desire to use the venue as their base for post-match meals.

Next year, they hope to have completed work on the beer garden, with the area being more accessible for children.

Tombs said: "It's just a smoking area now, but with a new patio and play area, it will be very attractive for families. Everything is very exciting and we are delighted with how it has all turned out."