VILLAGE PUB GETS £200K MAKEOVER

The Gardeners Arms, Higham has officially reopened following a comprehensive refurbishment costing nearly £200,000.

New tenant Mark Neale, a former customer at the pub, and pub owners Shepherd Neame made the joint investment in the Gardeners Arms to give the village and the surrounding area the high quality drinking and dining pub they felt it deserves.

Speaking at the official opening on Monday, 23/10/17 he said:

“It’s been a lot of hard work to get to where we are today so thanks to the brewery, the staff and all our customers for their continued support.”

Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame said:

“I love pubs like this, places where you can have a conversation with people from all walks of life, with great beer and food. It’s a proper pub and long may it continue to flourish.”

The first official pint was poured jointly by pub regular Inder Palkalsi and Patrick Murray, who played the character of Mickey Pearce in classic sitcom Only Fools and Horses.

Mr Murray led the pub in an impromptu singalong of ‘There’s only one Mickey Pearce.'

The refurbishment works included the full refurbishment of the interior and two letting rooms, changes to the bar, upgrading of the kitchen and external redecoration. The Gardeners also has a new food menu offers freshly cooked classic and modern dishes.

The reopening was also marked with the presentation of a cheque for £1,000 to Demelza, which provides Hospice Care for Children.