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North-west multiple operators Julie Panaro and George Catterall have taken on a lease for the Feilden’s Arms in Mellor Brook, Blackburn – their third pub with Star Pubs.
The couple already run the Butler’s Arms in Pleasington and the Hospital Inn in Bamber Bridge.
Panaro and Catterall, in partnership with Star Pubs, are investing £465,000 in refurbishing the Feilden’s Arms.
The venue, previously under temporary management, will reopen in mid-August as a family- and dog-friendly village pub offering live sport and entertainment.
The revamp is expected to create 20 new jobs. The interior is also being redecorated in a traditional style with new flooring, lighting and furniture to seat 96.
A games room will feature a pool table, darts board and HDTVs. External upgrades include new signage, lighting and outdoor seating for 60.
Alongside showing Sky Sports, the operators plan to host monthly live entertainment and a programme of food and drink events. The pub’s six letting rooms are also being upgraded.
The couple plan to introduce a loyalty card and weekday Club Menu, as used in their other pubs.
Panaro said: “Location is key to our decision of which pub we take on. The Feilden’s Arms is the nearest pub to BAE Systems, which is creating thousands of new jobs.
“When we heard about their expansion plans and Star Pubs’ proposed refurbishment it seemed an opportunity not to be missed. It’s a gorgeous-looking pub that just needs refreshing and a clear direction.”
She added: “It’s important to us that the Feilden’s Arms is run as a proper pub and offers real value for money to encourage repeat business, as people can feel ripped off sometimes when they go out for a meal at a country pub. As for future expansion plans, we’re happy with three, though if an opportunity like this one came along again, we might be tempted.”
Andy Bowden, investment manager at Star Pubs, concluded: “I am delighted Julie and George have taken on the Feilden’s Arms. It needed the right operators for it to realise its true potential.
“They have decades of hospitality experience at home and abroad and run two successful nearby pubs. Their local knowledge and vision, together with the investment in housing and new jobs on their doorstep, will ensure the success of Feilden’s Arms.”
