Oxford pub pushes the boat out to stay afloat in the floods

Pub-goers who have battled the elements to reach their local in Oxford have been rewarded with a bite to eat or money off their bar bill.

Regulars at peach-owned venue the Fishes at North Hinksey, which is located west of Oxford, were given the offer for every day the road outside was closed because of flooding.

Pub manager Owain Llwyd Jones and his team also bought drinks for any guests who rowed a boat to the pub while the area was flooded.

'A grim few days'

Jones said: “It was a grim few days for homes and businesses but we were determined not to let the floods get the better of us and to keep the pub open.

“So we got tweeting and emailing to let people know that if they got to the pub while the Botley Road was closed, we’d give them a free starter or dessert with their meal or 20% off their drinks bill. All they had to do was say the words ‘floody hell’ when they made it.

“We even bought drinks for anyone who jumped in a boat and rowed over – and I can tell you quite a few brave souls did.”More than 150 people took up the pub’s offers."

Jones added: “It was a great boost for the pub so thank you to everyone who made the effort and didn’t let the great British weather stop them having a great time.