Fancy being a pub landlord in Swindon? (From Swindon Advertiser)

Fancy being a pub landlord in Swindon?

4:00pm Thursday 21st February 2013 in News

BUDDING landlords have the chance to find out about running their own pub, thanks to Arkell’s.

The Stratton-based brewer is hosting its annual landlord recruitment day on March 14, from 1pm to 8pm, to encourage people to take their first steps towards running a pub.

The event at the brewery in Kingsdown regularly attracts people from across the country.

It specifically targets people who are interested in running their own business, but want the reassurance of realising these ambitions with the guidance and support of a brewery that has been in business for 170 years.

Julie Moss, who has been running The Sun Inn at Coate with husband, Andy, since September, has been an Arkell’s tenant for ten years.

“There are lots of hours and it requires a lot of effort, but it is very rewarding,” she said.

She pointed out how Arkell’s offered a good opportunity for employment at a time when unemployment was affecting many people in the town.

Running a pub had been a lifelong dream for the landlady.

“I’ve wanted to run a pub since I was four-years-old,” she said. “I live and breathe running a pub. I really couldn’t imagine doing anything else with my life.”

For those wanting to take their first steps in running their own business, they would be well looked after under the Arkell’s umbrella.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: “For those who have the capability and determination to run their own business but haven’t yet quite had the courage to take their first steps, running an Arkell’s pub is the ideal way to begin.

“They might be running their own business, but they’ve got the back-up and experience of a 170-year-old brewery behind them.

“Practically all pubs have multiple income-generating opportunities and ours are no exception.

“Now a publican can sell beer, food, including takeaway, host events and offer overnight accommodation too. Some of our pubs even have hardstanding for caravans.”

Landlord of two Arkell’s pubs, Chris Manners, highlighted the flexibility involved in running a pub.

He said: “Arkell’s gave us regular support, but ultimately it’s our business, we’ve got control and that’s the way we like it.”

It may not be for everyone, but Mr Arkell said those who were determined to take the next step could be in for a long and successful career.

“Stepping into a new business is always a challenge, but those who do and enjoy it can quickly take great strides,” he said.

“Many of our landlords have been with us for decades.”

For more information contact the brewery on 01793 823026 or visit www.arkells.com.