Clear Pub Company founders split

The founders of Clear Pub Company (CPC), one of Punch's largest multiple operators, have dissolved their partnership.

CPC launched in July 2007 when former Punch senior managers Duncan Ward and Andy Wilkinson took charge of 25 leasehold sites, backed by Close Ventures, from their former employers .

However, that number was reduced to 10 in December when units, which did not fit their business model were handed back to Punch. CPC also acquired eight freeholds at that time.

Ward and Wilkinson have now split with Ward taking control of the eight freeholds under a new company called Welland Inns. Ward will also continue to operate the recently launched Intrepid Leisure management arm.

Wilkinson has taken control of the 10 Punch leaseholds under the CPC banner.

"We have dissolved the Clear Pub Company partnership," said Ward. "But it was an amicable split. We're not arguing over who gets the dog.

"I am now focusing on freeholds am still looking for opportunities. I have significant financial investment behind me."

Ward added that Intrepid Leisure was due to be running around 30 pubs on behalf of pubcos within the next four to five years.

A Punch spokeswoman said: "'Following recent discussions we are able to confirm that Clear Pub Co will continue to run the ten Punch leased pubs under the management of Andy Wilkinson."