Brewer and pub operator Fuller, Smith & Turner has acquired the Lewes Arms in East Sussex, the site of a controversial dispute over Harveys bitter last year.
The pub’s former owner Greene King was slammed by drinkers after it withdrew locally brewed Harveys in December 2006.
The company was forced to reinstate the bitter after a high-profile four-month boycott of the pub by local residents.
Fuller’s, which announced the purchase today, has been quick to confirm that it will continue to supply Harveys bitter. In exchange, Harveys's Royal Oak pub in London’s Borough has agreed to offer a Fuller’s beer.
Fuller’s Inns managing director, Simon Emeny, said: “We have been looking for a site in Lewes for some time and we are thrilled to acquire such a prestigious pub. Our pubs in Brighton are performing well and a move into nearby Lewes was the logical next step.
“Fuller’s always looks to offer the best pub in any area and we are looking forward to working with the local community to ensure the Lewes Arms is a pub they can all be proud of.”
The Lewes Arms will be run as a leased site under Peter Dowd, also runs the Basketmaker’s Arms in neighbouring Brighton.
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By Daniel Thomas
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