New publicans Steve Banks and Lucy Riley open The Plough in Holbeach St Johns

A pub which faced permanent closure has now been reopened as a vibrant community hub.

Steve Banks and Lucy Riley have breathed new life into the The Plough in Holbeach St John to the delight of villagers who fought to save it.

Ploughing On Together campaigners started a petition back in 2021 to save the 200-year-old pub from being turned into residential dwellings describing it as the ‘heart and hub’ of the village.

The new publicans have committed to the pub and have thanked the community for its support.

Mr Banks said: “We both live in the village and we love a traditional pub and somewhere to meet for the community.

“We have signed up for five years and will relook at how we are doing in two years time.

“All we can say is that the support from the community has been amazing.”

The couple will be juggling the pub around their full-time jobs but feel The Plough plays an important role in the life of the village.

Mr Banks, who works as a greengrocer while Miss Riley is a florist, said: “I think it is important for a pub to be there for a community and we have wanted a pub for a while.

“We have had a fantastic response from the locals and so many new people have moved into the village.

“There was nothing in the village and it is a way to get to know people.”

And they have big plans for the pub, which reopened on January 1.

They have introduced live music, quiz nights and hope to introduce afternoon teas and open a small beer garden.

Although it is currently a ‘wet pub’ just serving drinks, the couple have ideas to feed the locals and network with other small businesses.

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Mr Banks said: “Once a month we will start organising a different street food wagon outside such as fish and chips.

“Customers can order ahead and eat in the pub if they are having a drink.

“We want it to be a family pub especially in the spring and summer where people can go.”

They describe the pub as ‘child and dog friendly’ and are currently opening Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays.

For further information visit The Plough - Holbeach St Johns on Facebook

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