Staffordshire village's only pub to close for four weeks - here's why

A £240,000 pub revamp has given security to a Staffordshire village’s only local.

The pub in Hazelslade, near Hednesford, will be closed for four weeks before reopening in early December under the stewardship of 20-year-old local Reece Jones.

Mr Jones takes on the lease following a year of temporary management by his family, during which time five new jobs have already been created at the Rugeley Road pub.

He said: “Living locally, I know how important a pub is to village life. A new commercial kitchen will mean we can offer food, which together with improved facilities and a smarter décor will broaden The Hazelslade’s appeal.

“Thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement. I look forward to opening the doors again in December and creating one of the best pubs in the area.”

Renovations will include brighter décor inside and out, a zoned sports area, four new TVs and energy efficient taps alongside an outdoor seating area almost triple the size and a new commercial kitchen.

The Jones family’s expertise will be invaluable for the pub’s reopening. Reece’s parents, Dean and Louise, ran a pub in Lichfield, while brother Jamie will be advising on the new Hazelslade menu having garnered experience at Weston Hall.

Craig Foweather, Star Pubs investment manager, said: “Reece is one of our youngest licensees and yet has many years’ experience in hospitality.

“We’re delighted that Reece and his family reopened the pub for residents last year and that he will be taking it forward, building on the great work they have done with the community during this time.

The community fostered by the Jones’s is set to grow as the weekly quiz and fortnightly live music will continue alongside a new weekly bingo.

“It’s a fantastic end to the year for residents and for Reece. I wish him and his team well and many happy years ahead at the heart of village life.”