STAR INN'S SECRETS SOUGHT

Photographs and stories of a North Somerset pub are being sought by the new landlord and landlady, who want to build up a history of the roadside hostelry.

The Star Inn at Tickenham is a well-known landmark on a bend in the main road to Clevedon but landlord and chef Tom Craig-Moonie, who has taken over the lease of the pub with his finacee Francesca Edwards needs help from locals in uncovering its secrets.

The couple are determined to make the Star Inn as popular with locals as it is with passing motorists and have already brought back a real log fire to the bar as a first step in making it a homely place where people can meet and drink.

Tom Craig-Moonie said: “An old photograph brought in by one of the staff enabled us to uncover the old fireplace behind panelling and we have installed a log burner so that we have a cosy corner where people can sit and enjoy the real log fire.

“Many local people told us they wanted the real fire back through this winter and it has made a real difference to the atmosphere.

“There are very few other photographs and memories of things that have gone on here over the years so we are asking local people to come in and bring their old photographs and memories and if we get enough interesting items we will put on a display here.

“We are not even sure when the pub was built – the architecture suggests around 1900 – and we would love to see early photographs or memories of The Star down the years.

“It has always been a family pub in recent years with both indoor and outdoor play areas and we have plans to improve these as well as bringing back the pub games such as pool, darts and cards.”

With his chef background Tom Craig-Moonie is also revamping the menu at The Star Inn with fresh ingredients from local suppliers.

Anyone with information on The Star should contact Tom or Francesca on 01275 858836 or simply take it into the pub.