"Substantial investment" at Shroppie Fly

Regular readers will have read our story earlier this week when we expressed concern about the Shroppie Fly, probably the best-known business in Audlem, and a vital part of the village's tourist appeal.

We mused about sitting by the canal outside the Shroppie, pint in hand, watching narrow boats and the world drifting by on a sun-drenched afternoon, a memory etched in the minds of many a local and visitor alike.

Pub enthusiasts, we suggested, and many others, will be desperate to see the pub restored to its former glory after long serving licensees Kate and Andy left the pub in mid-October.

Temporary managers Keith and Doreen took over and rumour had it that a refurbishment is planned in the New Year.

Audlem Online contacted Punch Taverns, lease holders of the Shroppie, and asked if future plans were known as yet and if new licensees have been appointed.

The company confirmed that a "substantial investment" is to made in the New Year and that they are still actively recruiting new licensees.

We did ask if the Shroppie was to remain a "traditional pub" and stressed how important it was, situated as it is next to the canal, that it continued to be an attraction that brings visitors to the village being one of the best-known pubs on the canal network.

Further news as soon as we have any about the new licensees and their plans.

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