It emerged this weekend that Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans splashed out £1.5m to double the size of his Surrey pub empire (to two pubs) as he joined the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Sir Alex Ferguson as a celebrity landlord (although Ramsay's credentials are somewhat better than Fergie's when it comes to serving food).
Evans has picked up the currently closed Red Lion in Milford, and has outlined plans to revive its fortunes by expanding the restaurant and building B&B chalets to add to its eight guest rooms. But Evans is stuck in red-tape limbo in his attempts to create a hospitality hot-spot as he awaits Council approval. Apparently the pub is connected to a 14th century "listed monastic building" by way of a tunnel of 'historic importance'.
Those of you who listen to Evans' Radio 2 show will know he is a self-confessed foodie, so there is every chance that this is less of a place for the once notorious drinker to indulge in his hobby and more of a serious hospitality business. But can celebrities run a pub? I'd like to know your thoughts.
Comments (4)
Chris hasn't bought this Pub... strange story and definately untrue!
Posted by Smith | November 13, 2007 2:47 PM
Posted on November 13, 2007 14:47
How about the Lickfold inn in Lodsworth - has he bought that?
Posted by Vanessa | December 3, 2007 1:36 PM
Posted on December 3, 2007 13:36
Hi,
My name is Mark i was hoping that you may be able to contact me in regard to getting in touch with the Project manager who will be looking after the development of the pubs that Chris Evans has just purchased,we are a company that supply and maintain epos systems to the hospitality trade any info on how to contact Mr Evans's manager would be much appreciated.
Thankyou Mark Cox
Posted by Mark Cox | July 29, 2008 2:17 PM
Posted on July 29, 2008 14:17
Hi, ate at Chris,s pub in Wales in the Usk Valley, Sunday lunch was fantastic. 3 courses for £20.00 It really was great value for money.Food was superb,Great staff and Great atmospere, Going to Chiddingfold next (I live near there) hoping to get the same value and service.
Posted by Andrew Wilson | November 26, 2008 2:14 PM
Posted on November 26, 2008 14:14