A ONCE popular Bromsgrove village pub will be faithfully restored just in time for Christmas, creating 10 new jobs.
The Plough and Harrow on Stourbridge Road, Catshill will be renovated under Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars, with local debut licensee Beth Smith at the helm.
Birmingham born Beth, who has lived nearby since childhood, will become a licensee for the first time to bring the former pub back to the people of Catshill.
She has been working at another Bromsgrove pub for the last seven years, following in the footsteps of her her mother, auntie and uncle, who all worked in the industry.
Work starts on October 16 and the pub, which closed on September 29, is scheduled to reopen in mid December.
The renovation will feature improvements to the facade, rear garden and a new look interior with an extended bar and updated furnishings whilst retaining the pubs timber floor and frames.
Beth said: “The Plough & Harrow has lost its way in recent years and people in Catshill have been worried about its future. My aim is to give them a pub they can be proud of again.
“I feel very lucky – I can’t think of better pub to run.
“It’s unloved now but has loads of potential. The investment is just what’s needed to bring it back to life – it’ll be transformed.
“It has many positive connections for me; I’ve got happy memories of it as a child and it’s the local of two of my closest friends.
“I can’t wait to open the doors and show everyone their new-look pub.”
The pub will serve classic food offerings and the bar extension will leave room for a coffee and cocktail station with a wide range of other drinks including craft beer.
Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager, Thomas Timmons said: “We’re delighted to be investing in The Plough & Harrow to help it thrive for the long term.
“Beth is the ideal publican, she is highly experienced, has an excellent knowledge of the area and understands just what residents want.
“Beth is passionate about creating a fantastic pub for the community and her plans will ensure that The Plough & Harrow caters for everyone and for all occasions, from a quiet coffee to a nice meal or a good night out.
“We wish her all the best.”
