North West Cambridge-shire MP Shailesh Vara was invited to visit the Whittle, on Central Square, to celebrate its reopening, following a major investment by leaseholder Alfreton Pubs, a multiple pub operator, and Punch Taverns.
The Punch Taverns pub, which was closed for four weeks while a refurbishment took place, reopened at the beginning of November. Pub manager Jamie Brown took Vara on a tour of the premises and then invited him behind the bar to pull a pint.
Vara said: “I am pleased to be able to visit the Whittle. A huge amount of work has been undertaken to ensure that all age groups are looked after. It is good to see that the pub has ensured there are facilities not only for individuals but also for families.”
Loyal following
The pub has a loyal community following thanks to its sports coverage and, with the investment, has expanded its food and drink offer with cask ale and cider, as well as a traditional pub classics, sports and children’s menu.
Keith Brown, operations manager at Alfreton Pubs, said: “It’s great to see a local MP supporting the industry. Pubs form an important part of our local community and I know the Whittle was missed while it was out of action.”
Jean-Paul Russek, Punch Taverns partnership development manager for the Whittle, said: “The Whittle is a great example of a pub at the heart of the community, which sets high standards in all areas of the business.”