New licensee sought at popular village pub left closed since landlady's sudden death
Efforts have got under way to find a new licensee for popular Clent pub The Fountain which has been closed since the tragic death of its landlady.
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Villagers and regulars were left shocked by the sudden death of Jacqueline Macey which was announced on the pub’s Facebook page on March 26, followed a few days later by an update saying The Fountain would remain closed until further notice.
There was an outpouring of grief and sadness on social media at the news with hundreds of friends, relatives, colleagues and customers rushing to pay tribute to much-loved pub owner Jackie, as she was known, who was described as “the heart and soul of The Fountain”.
The usually bustling pub, situated at the foot of the Clent Hills, fell silent in the aftermath of the news - and has remained closed for close to two months.
Pub company Marston’s, however, has now posted an advert on its website seeking a new tenant to run the historic pub which is popular with walkers, locals and foodies.
The advert reads: “The Fountain is a charming gastro pub nestled in the picturesque Worcestershire village of Clent. It’s a destination pub at the foot of the Clent Hills and attracts walkers and locals alike as well as guests travelling to sample the award winning menu and service.
“The Fountain has lots of potential to grow sales with the right operator driving sales forward.”
It adds that the pub comes with accommodation comprising a two-bedroom apartment, above the bar and restaurant, which has a private kitchen and bathroom; and says estimated weekly sales are £15,000 on a 70/30 dry-led split.
The tenancy offers anyone taking over the chance to put together their own menus and choose their own food, and they would get to keep 100 per cent of the business’ profits and 50 per cent of profits from gaming machines.
A funeral service for Jackie will take place at St Mary’s Church, Oldswinford, Stourbridge, on Friday, May 30 at 1pm followed by a celebration of her life which will be held at Old Halesonians, Wassell Grove Lane, Hagley, DY9 9JP.
Mourners are requested to wear colourful clothes in memory of Jackie, who was described as having “touched the lives of so many” in a tribute posted on the pub’s Facebook page.
