The Heron at Stowbridge extends facilities after first successful year for owners

One year after opening their riverside pub at Stowbridge, Stuart and Tracey Elflett are delighted with its success and looking to expand facilities to meet demand.

The couple, who took over The Heron in August 2018, are extending the restaurant by another 20 covers so it will be able to accommodate nearly 100 diners.

Said Tracey: "So many people have come here and said they are visiting on friends' recommendation. That is the best compliment you can get. We are investing back into the business which is why we are extending the restaurant. We have also put down decking outside beside the river.

"Looking back over our first year, it's been incredibly hard work, but bookings have rolled in. In the year ahead, I think we are well prepared for everything to fall into place."

As one of the ways to mark the first anniversary, sous chef Colin Perry baked the 1,000th pie prepared at the pub, which was served on the house to visitor Paul Williman, from West Newton, earlier this month.

Said Tracey: "Mr Williman was totally surprised and delighted when he was served his meal for free. Our pies are so popular they have become legendary. He is looking forward to spending time here over the festive season as he has booked one of our caravan pitches."

The Heron has a touring caravan park with five electric points which has proved popular in the past year and in addition there are two boutique bed and breakfast guest rooms, which have already been booked for the next New Year's Eve event when the pub has live music and a set menu.

"We are delighted with the feedback we have received from our customers in our first year and so pleased to see that we have become a focal point for the community," said Tracey. "We regularly have local people stroll along the riverbank to visit and they have enjoyed meeting visitors who have travelled from further away."

An anniversary event is being held on Sunday, August 25, with a barbecue and music from 7pm-9pm. Guests who spend more than £2.50 on a drink will receive a free hot dog or burger.

Tracey and Stuart, who continues to work as an electrician, completely refurbished the pub spending around £200,000 when they took it over last year.

The Heron is closed on Mondays but is open the rest of the week for food service noon to 9pm, during the summer. It can be contacted on 01366 384040.