Award-winning host Anthony Mears buys new pub

Anthony Mears, award-winning licensee, has bought the freehold of the Beckford Inn in Gloucestershire.

Acting on behalf of administrators BDO Stoy Hayward, Christie + Co sold the freehold interest of the Beckford Inn Hotel & Restaurant near Tewkesbury, to Mears for an undisclosed sum.

The Beckford Inn is a large Cotswold stone building which dates from the 18th century. It has a well-appointed bar and snug, as well as accommodation and an 85-cover restaurant.

Simon Chaplin, director at Christie + Co, said: "Prominently located the Beckford Inn generated a significant amount of interest, which eventually led to a competitive bidding process. We are delighted that an experienced operator like Anthony Mears has taken on the business. This is another example of how private buyers can acquire quality freeholds at sensible prices in the current market."

Mears formerly owned the award-winning Ivy House in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, but sold the pub to Fullers in 2007 for an undisclosed figure.

The pub was the recipient of many awards including BII's Innkeeper of the Year 2000 and Morning Advertiser's Freehouse of the Year 2006.

Mears and his family took some time off before finding the Beckford Inn in spring of this year. The new management team will include family friend Richard Partington as general manager, who has a long career in the industry and has worked with chef Anthony Worrall Thompson.

Anthony Mears, the business brains of the operation, also works with BII as national deputy treasurer. His wife Jane will be the executive head chef — in their last pub she won accolades for her fresh desserts and healthy food dishes.