Rundown pub to get the world record treatment

Tim Hughes and Sarah Moy outside the Pear Tree

New licensee Tim Hughes, who is in the Guinness Book of Records for running the world’s smallest commercial brewery, wants to revive the fortunes of the Pear Tree in Penwortham.

The pub, in Leyland Road, is to close for a month for a full refurbishment and will re-open on June 10.

“It’s got loads of potential - all it needs is some serious TLC and investment,” said Tim who has moved over from Skipton to take on the job of revitalising the tired local.

“I’ve had a fantastic welcome from the community and now I just want to repay them by giving them back a really great pub. I’ve taken a lot of their ideas on board, so I hope they’re pleased with the results. If the plans are anything to go by the Pear Tree will look spectacular.”

Tim has joined forces with Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars to transform the pub into a high quality traditional local serving the needs of the whole community.

Work will include a complete refurbishment, restoring its fires, putting in new toilets, creating a dining area and re-fitting the kitchen. The Pear Tree’s sports facilities will also be upgraded with larger TV screens.

The project will also involved a facelift outside, providing a new terrace and smoking area and giving the garden a makeover. There will also be a new menu, a weekly quiz and monthly live music nights.

With his background in brewing, Tim says he is determined to put the Pear Tree on the map for the quality of its beer. He has been joined at the pub with assistant manager Sarah Moy.

“I spent months looking for the perfect pub and the Pear Tree stood out,” he said.

Lawson Mountstevens, MD of Star Pubs and Bars, said: “We feel fortunate that such a dynamic and experienced operator as Tim is taking on the Pear Tree as his own and is working with us to revive its fortunes.

“Heineken is a passionate supporter of the great British pub and is investing in pubs like the Pear Tree to help them deliver excellent quality, attract customers and thrive at the heart of their communities for years to come.”