From the https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Liane Castle, 26 August 2024.

Father and daughter vow to make ‘unviable’ Monkton pub a success.

A father and daughter who have never run a pub have vowed to revive a traditional inn previously branded “financially unviable”.

Patrick McKenna and Jessica Pinder have taken over The New Stag near Ramsgate, formerly known as the "Olive Tree at the White Stag".

Father and daughter Patrick McKenna and Jessica Pinder have taken on The New Stag in Monkton. Picture: Jessica Pinder.

The previous landlord attempted to combat dwindling profits by overhauling the spot into an Italian restaurant to survive, however, they were forced to shut just four months later.

But despite having never pulled pints before, Mr McKenna, 53, and Mrs Pinder, 29, hope to stand firm in the economic storm looming over the catering industry.

“Jess and I never expected to go into business together but when this came along we just took it,” said Mr McKenna.

“We had a great opening night, there were about 250 people here, which was really good.

The New Stag has been given a face lift inside and out.

“We've got DJs, karaoke and singers lined up as well as afternoon teas for the locals so it will be a real community pub.

“We're going to introduce food in four weeks’ time such as Sunday lunches and breakfast.

“It was an Italian restaurant before and it struggled.

“It's had an uplift, it's been repainted inside and out, the bar has been stripped and varnished and we have all new furniture and a new name.”

New owners have taken over The New Stag in Monkton.

Mr McKenna, a Royal Mail boss for more than 30 years and Mrs Pinder, who worked in a school, opened earlier this month after buying a year-long lease.

The dad added: “A lot of the locals have come in and said they'll support us, it's great to have the pub up and running as the village needs a pub.

“It has been really busy, and manic so far so long may it continue.”

The pub was formerly known as The Olive Tree at the White Stag
The pub was formerly known as The Olive Tree at the White Stag
The duo from Monkton say their new team has several ideas for the venue and, regardless of pubs closing at an alarming rate, they are looking forward to the venture.

The New Stag’s revival is a welcome addition to Monkton Road following the "Olive Tree’s" departure.

Previous owner John Esqulant spoke candidly about the difficulties landlords face as scores of Kent pubs shut their doors each year amid intense financial pressure.

Having renamed the tavern near Canterbury the "Olive Tree at White Stag Lodge" in March, the 44-year-old adapted to a food-focused establishment.

Father and daughter Patrick McKenna and Jessica Pinder have taken on The New Stag.

More than 200 people visited The New Stag in Monkton on its opening day. Picture: Jessica Pinder.

But announcing news of the closure in a statement last month, Mr Esqulant said: “Unfortunately, we needed more people's support more often to make having a pub and restaurant in Monkton village financially viable.”

As drinking habits change and the cost-of-living crisis shows no sign of receding, many landlords across the county have needed to adapt or close.

Recently, the "Flying Saucer" in Hempstead and the "Walnut Tree" in Yalding were forced to call last orders.