Go For It With The White Lion!

Village resident and local parish councillor David Leader led the Public Meeting with the majority of his Steering Group in the Comrades Hall last night concerning the future of the White Lion Pub.

David began by introducing the Steering Group, all village residents, to those present…
From left to right in the photograph:

  • Luke Pickering – Over 10yrs experience of running pubs. Currently senior management at Screwfix.
  • Chris Edgerley – Very much involved with the village shop & the Comrades Hall. “We rely on him massively for lots of the good work that takes place in our community“. Chris recently rebuilt the wall in Bernards’ Place (read more about the wall HERE).
  • David Leader – Parish councillor, retired police officer, Chairman of the Comrades Hall Committee & runs a small holiday cottage with his wife in the village. (Does an immense amount of work for this community!).
  • Susannah Newall – A director of Specsavers, Bridport. Was up until recently Chairman at Bridport Leisure Centre.
  • Fraser Hughes – Parish councillor and a key figure in establishing the village shop. Retired from a career in marketing.
  • John Heys – Also very involved with the village shop. An engineer by profession in charge of multi-million pound projects,
  • Sandra Burrows – a lifetime of running customer based businesses, a key member of the shop committee and “well versed in all things to do with finance

Four members of the group were absent:

  1. Susannah’s husband, Chris Newall.
  2. Charles Ouin – A lifetime’s experience in law as a solicitor, Charles is helping the group with legal matters.
  3. & 4. Andrew & Margery Hookings – who were not present nor acknowledged as being on the Steering Committee at the time.

David Leader explained how, approximately two months ago, he had been approached by Palmers, as a member of the Parish Council after they had failed to find tenants to replace Spike & Vikki, enquiring whether the venture of a Community Pub could be considered. The Steering Group was established to investigate all the aspects of taking this on.

Many meetings and conversations with Palmers have taken place over this time.  Their first priority was community feedback to find out what was wanted.  Fraser Hughes then delivered the statistics from the data analysis:

  • There had been a 58% return from the 356 questionnaires distributed.  This was thought a good representation for the village compared to general and local election poll turnouts and taking into account second home owners and those on holiday.
  • Broadwindsor.org‘s headline of 95% say Yes! Keep Our Pub said it all – it’s more attractive to property seekers, confirmed by estate agents.
  • Attendance41% stated they’d visit the pub once a week or more; 17% stated once a fortnight or more; 35% stated occasionally.
  • The main reason for visiting the pub27% stated for food and not drink. Palmers confirmed that this was the upward trend compared with 23% going to the pub for just a drink.
  • Opening hours: 33% were happy for Thursday – Saturday opening compared with 20% who would like it open every day. Food would be preferred on Friday & Saturday evenings and Sunday lunchtime.
  • Although not included in the questionnaire, a significant amount of people had commented about including a  Tuesday night to accommodate L&F’s catering (the chippy van) business – this would be included in their plan.
  • 87% wanted a traditional pub atmosphere, 85% wanted it to be family friendly & 65% wanted a garden or outside space. 54% wanted it to be pet friendly.  The other things on offer? Some were more popular than others but it certainly wasn’t the main reason people went to the pub.
  • It was felt that the Comrades Hall met most of the requirements for the other social occasions we have.
  • What needs to change? The decor was at the top of the list, described by Fraser as “a tired, dark and dismal pub in need of change”. Improvements in the food offered was second. 18% requested Guest ales but unfortunately, Palmers will not entertain this idea whatsoever.

Fraser stated that the situation with Palmers was, if the pub wasn’t taken on, planning permission would be applied for; it would eventually be converted into accommodation on Palmers’ portfolio and lost, like so many rural pubs, forever.  To go ahead with this project, the minimum that has to be raised is £30,000*.


David Leader
then spoke of how he was cynical and wary of Palmers initially, particularly as their initial offer was totally unaffordable with a full repairing lease.   It was fair to say that Palmers had moved their position considerably.  They are confident that they have “reached an agreement ‘ in principle’, that allows the pub to survive and provide a financial working model that means that we can make it work…as a community enterprise, we don’t need to make huge profits.

David reiterated that although they had asked Palmers several times to sell the pub – this was not an option they were prepared to consider.  The Community Pub will be tied to Palmers’ beers, wines & spirits but their stocklist was far more extensive than they had realised, giving greater scope than they had been aware of. This had to be accepted for the project to move forward.

Luke Pickering then took the floor to discuss the models they had looked at. Information had been provided from Palmers and from previous landlords, Spike & Vikki.  “A hard way to make a living… but as a community model, it can work.” He proposed the pub being open Tuesday night, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
What would make us exclusive from other community pubs is that the community would be the tenant.  A salaried manager would be employed. He had completed a business plan which demonstrated that recent figures could generate enough profit to “keep it ticking over“.

David then returned stating that moving forward, there was a huge amount of work to do: there needs to be a government strategy and many legalities to be resolved before any work can take place. The village shop was a model that could be replicated in the pub with the combination of paid staff and volunteers. With the support of the community – a similar success story could take place. It would have to be used or else it would fail!  All opportunities and suggestions would be explored to try and make it the best possible place it can be.

*The £30,000 would cover essential refurbishment work, provide working capital to get it going, to do all the legal aspects and all that they are unable to do themselves.  All potential funding sources would be explored and considered, including Crowdfunder to get the project started.

The Steering Group then invited questions from the floor, responses included…

  • The Rent – involves a 3yr renewable lease. Substantial discounts have been offered by Palmers for the first two years with a lower rate than most for the third year.
  • Palmers’ take – If the project goes ahead, it starts with a very favourable deal from Palmers. Afterwards it would be approx. 8% of turnover.  Palmers began by requesting the Parish Council rent the building and take on a full repairing lease for this 300yr old listed building which was an impossible and unaffordable situation for the Parish Council to take on.
  • If the arrangement goes ahead, Palmers would be responsible for the entire building and all the services in it.  The community, as tenant would be liaible for all interior decoration. Palmers intend to decorate the exterior of the pub in September 2021.
  • Occupancy of the premises above the pub would depend on the employed manager.
  • There appeared to be a misunderstanding of the survey figures by some as the figures involved were representing households and not individuals.
  • Luke confirmed that there were not enough people in the village alone to keep the pub going…. unless we all become alcoholics! The pub has to be somewhere you want to go to.
  • Volunteers will be essential.
  • A chef would also be employed.
  • Drimpton‘s Royal Oak was given a plug and as an example of how good food can attract visitors by Drimpton resident Steve Chubb.
  • Although all want the project to succeed – what if the project should fail? – There is a 6 month Break clause in the agreement which operates both ways.
  • We have to be viable – otherwise we walk away.” – David Leader.
  • There will be a governance process that has to be worked through but they are not at that stage yet.
  • If successful – the $64 million question… When will the pub be open? A good question but not one they are in a position to answer completely at this time.  Of course they want it open as soon as – but it will take some time: the legalities; the refurbisment; the staff; the produce and more.
  • There is no point in opening the pub in its current state.
  • The living accommodation could not be rented out in its current state. Access would also pose a problem to renting it out separately.
  • History has shown that the wealthy benefactor type scenario doesn’t work in this community. What does work in this community is lots of people giving little bits of both financial help and time help – it’s certainly worked and will continue to work. ” –
  • Shareholding has been discussed and remains an option once it has been confirmed that they will proceed with the project.
  • It is estimated that the annual turnover has to reach £150,000 to make it work.

David stated that initially he was very cynical of Palmers for many reasons, their first offer being shocking. Over the past two months however, following several communications with Tenanted Trade Director of Palmers, Jim Jones, he was convinced that he was working very hard and pushing boundaries to make this project work and to get a deal for the village first and foremost.  If it can be made to work here, Palmers have many struggling rural pubs that may adopt this model.

Of note if successful – The White Lion, Broadwindsor will be the first Community Tenancy of a Pub. The White Lion was also Palmers first pub in Dorset – Definitely worth hanging on to!

All those present voted unanimously with a show of hands for the Steering Group to proceed with their negotiations with Palmers and keep the White Lion in Broadwindsor.
Broadwindsor.org will keep you informed of further negotiations and public meetings.

Fingers Crossed

Broadwindsor.org will keep you informed of further negotiations and public meetings. Not everyone has or uses the internet and/or social media – please discuss and/or share this information with your neighbour 🙂

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset#DAONB,#DorsetLife,#PalmersBrewery,#BWGPC,#CommunityPub,#PublicMeeting,#TheWhiteLion,#WhatDidTheySay,#QuestionnaireResults,#SocialDistancing,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Home Security – Be Vigilant

Long summer nights and good weather are upon us but sadly that appears to attract unwelcome viisitors to our area too.  There have been several local reports of attempted and some successful break ins, particularly when tools are left outside or sheds left unlocked.

Please be vigilant!

Dorset’s new Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick is launching a survey to ask residents for their views on crime and policing in the county. Members of the public are being asked to complete the survey and provide information about what is important to them – Click HERE.

If you see or hear any suspicious activity – please contact Dorset Police:

  • If you witness a crime in progress – dial 999.
  • For non-emergency calls – dial 101
  • Report it to Dorset Police online – Click HERE.
  • Report anonymously to Crimestoppers HERE
    or telephone: 0800 555 111

Community Police Officer, Alex Bishop
Alex Bishop
is our Community Police Officer -he can be contacted
by email: alex.bishop@dorset.ppn.police.uk
or his mobile: 07912 898983.

 

Stay Safe!

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset#DAONB,#DorsetPolice,#Crimestoppers,#EyesPeeled,#BeAlert,#StaySafe

95% Say YES – Keep Our Pub!

All the Pub Questionnaires have now been analysed and 95% of those returned want the White Lion pub to remain open and active in our community.

In account of the local Covid-19 status, Thursday’s meeting will start at 7.30pm outside the Comrades Hall building by the side entrance.  (If raining, there will be no other option but to move inside.)

The full results of the survey will be announced and there will be an open discussion with the opportunity for Q&As. Even if you have completed a questionnaire, you are encouraged to come along, listen and have your voice and your opinions discussed.

  • No decisions have been made yet.
  • Negotiations are still ongoing.
  • If you have any interest in the future of the White Lion pub in Broadwindsor – please attend!
  • Please let others know who may not use the internet or social media.

Thank you.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset#DAONB,#DorsetLife,#PalmersBrewery,#BWGPC,#CommunityPub,#PublicMeeting,#TheWhiteLion,#HaveYourSay,#QuestionnaireResults,#SocialDistancing,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Prout Bridge Project’s Village Afternoon Teas

The Prout Bridge Project (PBP) will have their new bus, Gilbert on the road offering Afternoon Teas – no need to book – from 2pm – 4pm on Thursdays on the following dates, at the following village venues:

  • Broadwindsor – Thursday, 29th July.
  • Drimpton – Thursday, 5th August.
  • Mosterton – Thursday, 12th August.
  • Salway Ash – Thursday, 26th August.

The team celebrated a sunny launch of their bus, Gilbert yesterday at Beaminster’s Memorial playing fields, welcoming friends, family and trustees.  This bus is a reminder of their founder Gil Streets, without whom they would not still be here today, continuing to support the community.

PBP is also offering free Village Activities on Thursday mornings, 10am – 12 noon at the following venues:

  • Mosterton – Thursday, 29th July.
  • Salway Ash – Thursday, 5th August.
  • Broadwindsor – Thursday, 12th August.
  • Drimpton – Thursday, 26th August.

*Please be aware that all dates are subject to Covid guidelines*For more information, please contact the Prout Bridge Project:
by email: info@proutbridgeproject.com.
Telephone: 07802 514171

Click HERE to visit their website 🙂

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Mosterton,#SalwayAsh,#Dorset,#WestDorset,#PBPReachingout,#AfternoonTea,#SummerActivities,#ProutBridgeProject,#PowerToChange,#2021,#BeSafe,BeKind,#StaySafe

Haiku Winners

From the entries submitted.. 1st prize is awarded to Izzy Masey who wrote:

Lovely Dorset gem .
Lewesdon Hill to Broad Welcome.
Happy place to be.

– Izzy Masey

The two Runners up were Katie Tiplady-Startin with:

Village life of peace.
Stone shining, green grass on show.
One way system joy.

and Helen Aldworth with:

I can see Dorset.
Pilsdon Pen is really high.
Is it the highest?

Each win a copy of Peter Roe’s ‘I’m in Love with My Barista‘ which retails at £6 and is available at Broadwindsor Community Stores for £5 🙂

Congratulations and thank you to all those who entered.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#DAONB,#Village,#PeterRoe,#CraftAHaiku,#Competition,#Winners,#BroadwindsorCommunityStores,#HedgehogPoetry#SecondBardOfCaerDur,#Poetry,#Apothecary,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Artreach Children’s Projects At Halstock

Not entirely local but Broadwindsor won’t have any Artsreach projects until the autumn.  However, Artsreach are back in Halstock Village Hall this summer with 2 exciting workshops for children.

Wednesday 28th July, 10am – 1pm (3 hrs):

A Wild Withy workshop led by Fran Quinlan.

Create giant structures inspired by seed pods, flowers, cones, vegetables and fruits.  Add to these organic forms – recycled paper, wool, threads, strips of fabric and tissue paper and take home a light and graceful sculpture which can be suspended or free standing.

Dress for mess!
Suitable for ages 8yrs +

Tickets: £8. To book visit www.artsreach.co.uk
Further information from Deborah Childs – 01935 891744

AristotleMonday 16 August from 10am – 3pm (5 hrs):

Aa Stop frame animation workshop led by Gary Jarman of Pageant Productions.

This is a fun and engaging stop-motion animation workshop for children who want to create their very own short film.  You will construct a small set, create scenes and use props to film your story on the effects of Climate Change.
This workshop is a great introduction into the world of animation.

Dress for mess!
Remember your lunch!
Suitable for ages 7 – 12yrs

Tickets: £10. To book visit www.artsreach.co.uk
Further information from Deborah Childs – 01935 891744

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#DAONB,#Village,#Artsreach,#Halstock,#ChildrensWorkshops,#LetTheChildrenPlay,#Fun,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

One Day Remaining…

..to get your entry in.

On the topic of Broadwindsor or Dorset – write a Haiku.

Write 3 lines….

  • the first line must have 5 syllables.
  • the second line must have 7 syllables
  • the third and final line must have 5 syllables

All ages welcome to enter 🙂

email: info@broadwindsor.org or via Facebook Messenger HERE.

Winners announced on Saturday.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#DAONB,#Village,#PeterRoe,#CraftAHaiku,#Competition,#GetWriting,#HedgehogPoetry#SecondBardOfCaerDur,#Poetry,#Apothecary,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Becca’s Mondays in Broadwindsor

In the Comrades Hall – Monday sessions… Come & Sew!

There is plenty of space to yourself, refreshments provided and help / tuition from Becca.

Finish a project or start something new. Becca will have some small patterns & projects to do each week.

  • A 2½  hour session £10
  • All Day £15 (9:30am- 2:30pm)

“It is really lovely to meet & see you all sewing!” – Becca

4 Monday dates available:

  • July 25th
  • August 9th
  • August 16th
  • August 23rd

Get in touch by email HERE of call Becca on 07486 062 343

Follow Becca‘s daily updates on Instagram HERE.
Becca and Florry (her lorry) are at Bridport market every Wednesday and Saturday.

#Broadwindsor,#Drimpton,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#BeccasFabricLarder,#Stitch,#Sew,#Quilt,#MobileShop,#Workshops,#ImproveSkills,#HaveFun,#TakePart,#BookNow,#SocialDistancing,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

 

Villager’s Allotment Takes First Prize

Bob Link, from Orchard Mead, Broadwindsor, took home first prize in the allotment category of the Melplash Show’s Annual Garden & Allotment competition.  The competition was cancelled last year.

Bob was praised by the judges who said it was ‘an excellent allotment‘ and ‘a lot of hard work has clearly gone into it‘ – they also praised his range of fruit and vegetables and a good use of companion planting. 🙂

The event was judged by the Mayor of Bridport, Ian Bark, his wife Anne and former society chairman Jo Sage. They were accompanied by society president Nigel Jones and society chairman James Vickery.

The winners received a voucher from Bridport-based William James & Co – manufacturers and suppliers of fruit cages, netting and garden equipment – and compost from Chedington Estate.

To view all the other Garden & Allotment competition results – Click HERE.

Well done Bob – Congratulations!

Photo Credit: Tim Russ

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#WestDorset,#MelplashShow,#Allotments,#Winner,#Congratulations,#Vegetables,#Flowers,#GetGardening,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Stableyard Restaurant Now Open

After closing due to Covid issues in the kitchen, Linda Paget and her team are pleased to announce they are open again from today 🙂

We are back open today. Our outside area is looking beautiful with the sweet peas and fuchsias all out. Lovely selection of cakes, slices and freshly baked scones.  Open for lunches too. Looking forward to seeing you all.”

 

Who can resist those cakes?

If you would like to make a booking please call 01308 868362 and leave a message, message them via Facebook or send an email to hello@stableyardrestaurant.co.uk

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#WestDorset,#StableyardBroadwindsor,#RedlandsYard,#covid19,#Cake,#Coffee,#LetsDoLunch,#SweetPeas,#Fuschias,#Sunshine,#BeSafe,#StayWell.#StaySafe