14th December 2007

Queen’s Head back in business

The summer’s devastating floods did not dampen licensee Clare Warren’s enthusiasm for running the Queen's Head, Sedgeberrow, nr Evesham, in Worcestershire.

In July 3m of water swept through the Hook Norton pub wrecking not just its interior but many houses in the village. It took four months to dry, clean and rebuild the interior of the pub, but it did reopen and once again it thrives.

The Queen’s Head is back as a village pub with style. Inside the welcome is warm and the atmosphere fresh and airy. Outside new signage proudly proclaims that the Queen’s Head is at the heart of village life.

Clare Warren said: “We were determined to reopen the pub again and thank goodness we took out loss of earnings insurance. The support of Hook Norton has been tremendous. But the support of the village has made me so proud. They almost willed the pub back into life.

“I had so many phone calls from people who were fearful that the pub would close for ever. They were very worried when the old signage was taken down. But when they saw our fabulous new sign they knew we would be coming back.” An entry on the village’s website shows how important the Queen’s Head is to village life. It reads: “This pub is my local. It offers outstanding beer and fantastic food. The food is adventurous and the food is well prepared.

” The pub is a proper local, offering locally brewed Hook Norton beers and most of the food is sourced from local farmers and suppliers. The menu is wholesome but imaginative – Salmon and prawn fishcakes, pork crackling with apple and cider sauce and black pudding and a poached egg are popular starters.

Main course include a rack of lamb, fillet steak and mushroom stroganoff. The pub has a small intimate restaurant area and a comfortable welcoming bar where customers can stand or relax at one of the tables.

Outside there is a small intimate patio. Darts and dominoes teams thrive – Sunday night is quiz nights. Sedgeberrow lies just off the A46, about four miles south of Evesham.