By IW Observer.co.uk
The New Inn, Shalfleet, is to reopen for drinks from 11am on Monday lunch-time, under new management.
Simon Cant, 33, and Liam White, 31, already own the family-run Castle Inn, Newport and The Vine, St Helens. They are taking on the New Inn, which has struggled to reopen since lockdown, initially (in a holding capacity) for a period of between 3 to 6 months.
Simon explained: “It needs opening up and running again; it’s the hub of the village. We want it open for the community, at least until it can find its forever landlord.
“It’s a beautiful pub, but at the moment we can’t commit financially, but you never know.”
Both business partners have young families. Simon is married to Louise, 25, who is assistant manager of The Castle and they have two children Fletcher, 5, and Elliott, 4, while Simon has Tia, 12, and Dean, 8, from a previous relationship.
Liam’s partner is Kristine, 30, who manages The Castle, and they have children Millie, 10, and Nixie, 19 months.
Simon added: “We open on Monday for drinks only; we need to do some work on the kitchen and start interviewing chefs. The food will be traditional pub food and some fine dining.
“My dream is to save as many old pubs from closing as possible, so that long-established pubs can survive.”
Press Release