Award winning publicans soar high with Spitfire Pub and Kitchen opening

EI Publican Partnerships together with experienced multi operators, Adam and Sue Franklin have revitalised:- The Spitfire Pub and Kitchen, Ainsdale, following a major ₤300,000 joint investment.  The experienced duo are well known in the North West for running a number of pubs over the past 25 years, including 2 successful Ei Publican Partnerships pubs in the area:- The Ring O' Bells, Farnworth and The Horse ans Jockey, Melling, which was the winner of:- 'Best Turnaround Pub' at Ei Group's Awards for Excellence last year. Ei Group has committed to investing c₤80m per year in its estate to support publicans.

The Spitfire Pub and Kitchen renovations include external decoration, new signage, as well as introducing a modern look and feel throughout. In addition to a revamped bar, including a designated gin bar, the new site boasts an open kitchen, garden terrace, and an outdoor children's play area, providing a space for the community to enjoy when summer approaches. The opening has created 40 new jobs for the local area. Sue Franklin said:- "We are thrilled to have taken on our third pub with Ei Publican Partnerships. We've developed an honest, trustworthy and transparent business partnership and we're very thankful for their ongoing support, confidence and investment in ourselves as operators.  Just like the team at Ei Group, we're truly passionate about reinvigorating pubs for the local community, so when the opportunity arose to take on this much-loved Ainsdale pub, we jumped at the chance. With this significant investment, we have been able to revitalise the pub adding something for everyone, and we very much look forward to welcoming guests new and old."

As part of the regeneration, Adam Franklin, an award winning chef, has created a new and extensive all day dining menu that provides something to suit every taste. Expect pub classics, such as steak and ale pie; alongside homemade pizzas and pastas; a Sunday carvery; and a world food menu section, inspired by the well travelled iconic aircraft the pub takes its name after.

All ingredients will be locally sourced where possible. Ei Publican Partnerships Regional Manager Delia Thynne added:- "Pubs are more than just businesses, they are the heart of their local communities and part of what makes the UK the country it is. We're passionate about identifying outstanding publicans across our estate and giving them the support, investment and resources, they need to grow their businesses and create outstanding local pubs in the heart of communities. Adam and Sue have a tremendous track record of running much loved and successful pubs and we're delighted to be further strengthening our partnership."

Warning over 'drugs in pubs'

A licensing expert is warning businesses operating in the sector to be aware of their responsibilities when it comes to tackling drug use in pubs and other venues. Malcolm Ireland, Head of Leisure and Licensing, at Regional law firm, Napthens, said some premises fail to deal with the issue properly, but with a few small changes could make a real difference. Not taking the issue seriously can mean significant problems for an operator; including the risk of being stripped of a licence.

Malcolm Ireland explained:- "It's an important duty of all licensed premises to help prevent crime and disorder and to promote public safety, among other responsibilities. It's an unfortunate reality that the night time economy is associated with drugs, but there is much that an operator can do to help and to ensure that they are fulfilling all their responsibilities. For instance, the British Beer and Pub Association recommends enforcing a robust drugs policy and ensure all staff are properly trained in identifying signs of drug use or supply. Installation of CCTV and effective door team can also play an important role. Failing to tackle a drug problem in a venue can potentially lead to Police action and loss of a premises licence.  Therefore, establishing and maintaining a good working relationship with the local Police is critical, demonstrating a commitment and helping create a safe environment. Where we see problems occurring is also where an operator has buried their head in the sand or failed to recognise there is an issue, so its important to play a part."

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