25th May

The Crown, a community pub coming back to life

All the data from the online and paper responses to the community questionnaire have now been collated. The management committee is reviewing and using it to inform decisions about the pub decor, opening hours, menu and drinks and possible new ways to use the pub space.

One of the overwhelming messages of the questionnaire was to keep the Crown’s character, but to make it a lighter, open and more welcoming space and address the pinch point at the entrance.

Before any interior changes could be addressed a mass clear out of broken or old furniture took place. All the glassware and crockery were also streamlined before a sweep through and clear-up was necessary—enter the skip! All remaining items have been stored until reopening, or to be spruced-up.

A full assessment of what was left, what needed to be replaced and the overall interior and exterior design was then looked at.

A colour scheme and design have now been agreed by the management

committee and different volunteers within the village have sprung into

enthusiastic action, and everyone contributing is helping to bring the heart back to this much loved historic, local pub.

We have talented volunteers lightening the wooden beams and painters adding colourful but lighter tones to the walls and woodwork. Seating that survived the cull are being reupholstered in people’s garages, blinds and curtains are being measured and cut out on dining room tables, and the remaining planters and hanging baskets are already adding a splash of summer colour.

None of these jobs are quick, but with the overwhelming number of people volunteering, we are making good progress.

The management committee have met on numerous occasions to date, and as progress on the fabric on the building develops, we are turning our attention to food and drink and opening hours .

Again, you have been crystal clear in your opinions here too!

The management committee wishes to thank everyone involved so far. We will endeavour to keep you informed as regularly as we can as things progress here in Village Voice, on Facebook, WhatsApp, www.cuddington.com and www.villagebluesky until we can access to the Crown website and socials on completion.

Thank you, The Crown Management Committee.