Village Pub Reclaimed by Local Community

Piddington, High Wycombe, UK – 30th December 2010 – After many years of neglect, a once-popular Buckinghamshire village pub has been reclaimed by members of the local community and restored to its former glory as the centre point of village life. The Dashwood Arms, Piddington (near High Wycombe) can trace its origins back many years, to a time when it was a coaching Inn. Wayne Mitchell, the man behind the revival, a Piddington resident, artist and engineer, said: “I’ve watched the pub decline over a period of many years. It had lost its connection with the local community – all of whom were really sad to see its demise.” “According to statistics released by the British Beer and Pub Association earlier this year, in this country, around 39 pubs close every week. I don’t doubt that The Dashwood Arms would have eventually been one more casualty if we’d not been able to take it over. “Country pubs fulfil an important function in the community – it’s much more than just selling drinks and food – customers benefit socially and quite often, professionally. They’ll get to meet their neighbours, make new friends and even help make business contacts. “As soon as my fellow residents heard that I was taking over, the offers of help have flooded in. I’ve really been humbled by their response – they clearly wanted to see the pub return to its rightful place as their local.” Mitchell went on to explain that at first, he expected to simply re-decorate, but when work started, it was clear that there would be much more involved. “We’ve had to construct a brand new bar area, with all new fixtures and fittings. There’s new carpets and flooring and we have established a restaurant area that has a really nice feel to it.” “All of my friends and neighbours in the village have helped out along the way, clearing out, decorating, helping with the construction works, it’s been heart-warming to see the level of support and genuine enthusiasm for the pub’s return.” Good, locally-sourced, food and drink is playing an important role in the newly-opened Dashwood Arms. Mitchell says that he has been incredibly fortunate in finding an excellent team of chefs and kitchen staff who’ve developed a fabulous gastro-pub-style menu. Since it opened, the pub has attracted a wide range of customers, many of whom have been impressed by the range of great drinks available. There are a selection of cask ales, some from the nearby Rebellion Brewery, there are keg lagers served in chilled glasses, local ciders, fine wines and an enviable array of spirits - including rare and unusual Scotch whiskies. “I’ve travelled to the USA on many occasions and have always been impressed by their style of bars.” Mitchell explained. “Visitors to The Dashwood Arms will see that we have gone to great lengths in recreating an authentic-looking bar, complete with mirrors. They really understand customer service in the States and that will be at the heart of everything we do.” “I know how popular the area is with walkers and we’ll be opening early on Sunday mornings to offer hot drinks and breakfasts, giving customers the opportunity to return afterwards for a relaxing lunch with the Sunday papers.” Nick Beoome Edwards, life-long Piddington resident, added: “I’m really over the moon now the pub has reopened. Previous owners and managers slowly took it away from us and they failed to grasp the pub’s importance.” “Pubs are an important part of our heritage and they must be supported and celebrated for all that they offer. “We know that it’s in a safe pair of hands now and it’s like the heart has been put back into the local community.” ENDS Notes to Editors: Opening Hours Monday – Saturday: 10:30am to 11pm Sundays – from early until 10.30pm Address Dashwood Arms Old Oxford Rd Piddington High Wycombe Buckinghamshire HP14 3BH Telephone: 01494 881 488

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