Popular Lancashire boozer badly damaged in Boxing Day floods reopens

A popular pub that suffered severe damage during the Boxing Day floods has reopened.
The Ribchester Arms.The Ribchester Arms.
The Ribchester Arms.

Licensees Phil and Tina Fairey, who run The Ribchester Arms on the banks of the Ribble, were devastated when the river broke its banks on Boxing Day, flooding the Blackburn Road pub as record rainfalls fell throughout the Ribble Valley.

The village suffered its worst floods since 1980 and despite the efforts of many, who tried to sandbag their entrances and save belongings, a number of properties, including the pub found their homes and businesses up to a foot in water.

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Phil said: “The flood destroyed the pub, causing irreparable damage to all our equipment and furniture. The water swept away the heavy seating in our beer garden and all of our stock had to be destroyed because of cross contamination.”

Tina added: “We had to cancel hundreds of bookings including a golden wedding party for a local couple who tied the knot at The Ribchester Arms 50 years ago. It was heartbreaking.”

But 24 hours after the flooding, the waters started to recede and, in true northern spirit, residents and staff arrived with brushes and mops to help clean up.

Robinson’s Brewery has carried out a complete refurbishment, which is said to be wowing the community.

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Tina added: “We are delighted with the result and very relieved to finally be open after all this time. Our staff have been amazing and our customers’ feedback to the new look has been brilliant as well.

“It’s great to be open and pulling pints again.”