Wadworth expands into Devon

Wiltshire-based brewer and operator Wadworth has acquired the Black Horse at Sowton, near Exeter — its first pub in Devon. The Black Horse will be...

Wiltshire-based brewer and operator Wadworth has acquired the Black Horse at Sowton, near Exeter — its first pub in Devon.

The Black Horse will be run as a managed venue with current managers Rachael McNamee and Bernadette Pyle remaining in place.

The pub is close to Exeter airport and benefits from the tourism in the area.

"With our long history of brewing ales in the West of England it is a real pleasure to be expanding the business into the beautiful county of Devon," said managed house operations manager Rupert Bagnall.

"We will be fully supporting the management team with their plans for an exciting future for the Black Horse."

McNamee said: "We are excited to be the first Wadworth pub in Devon and are looking forward to implementing the brewery's new ideas.

"First on the list is the refurbishment of the bar area and the development of a second decking area in front of the restaurant."

Wadworth currently operates an estate of 250 pubs across 10 counties.