Popular village pub to reopen with new licensee after sad death of much-loved landlady - here's when
A popular village pub in north Worcestershire is to reopen this autumn following the sad death of its landlady earlier this year.
The Fountain at Clent has been closed since the sudden death of licensee Jacqueline Macey which was announced on the business's Facebook page on March 26.
The usually bustling pub, at the foot of the Clent Hills near Stourbridge, fell silent in the aftermath of the news which left villagers and regulars shocked at the loss of Jacque, as she was known, who was described as “the heart and soul of The Fountain”.
Pub company Marston’s, however, has confirmed the pub, situated at the bottom of Adam's Hill, will reopen in the autumn after a search for a new licensee.
An update has also been posted on the pub's Facebook page confirming plans to welcome back customers in October after vital repairs are carried out on the venue, which has traditionally been popular with walkers, locals and foodies,
It reads: "As many of you will know, The Fountain has been closed for some time following the sad passing of Jacque Macey earlier this year. Jacque poured her heart and soul into this pub, shaping it into a much-loved place for friends, family, and good times. Her dedication and warmth left a legacy we’re proud to carry forward.
"We’ve taken on the privilege and responsibility of reopening The Fountain, with plans to welcome you all back towards the end of October. Over the next few months we are making a significant investment into The Fountain at Clent.
"A lot of time and effort is going into essential repairs of electrics, kitchens and outbuildings.
"We have brought together a talented team of chefs and front-of-house staff, including some familiar faces from The Fountain’s past, to help us continue the great legacy Jacque built.
"Slow-cooked lamb shoulder and classic beef wellington will be back on the menu, along with more seasonal fish dishes and a regularly changing chef’s specials board.
"We will be keeping the character and charm that makes The Fountain so special. No wild makeovers! We are updating things a bit, but it will still be The Fountain that you know and love.
"We can’t wait to open our doors and raise a glass with you all again. Here’s to honouring the past while building a future worthy of it."
The Hill Tavern at the top of Adam's Hill recently reopened after a makeover and change of ownership.
Clent locals Chris Massey and Nick Witts-Hewinson have taken over the historic hillside watering hole, which was put up for sale last autumn, and turned it into a new cafe and bar with Chris's daughter Lana Harvey at the helm as manager.
The revamped landmark, which was turned into a beer house after it was initially built as a house in 1942, has been proving a popular attraction with visitors to the National Trust owned Clent Hills.
