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4 Chequer Lane
Ash
Sandwich
01304 761984
https://www.chequerinn.com
http://www.chequerinnash.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com
https://whatpub.com/chequer-inn
Photo shown circa 1875. At the time they were supplied by Rigden's
Faversham Brewery.
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Above map 1896. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above postcard, circa 1900, kindly sent by Rory Kehoe. |
Above photo date circa 1904.
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Above postcard, circa 1904, kindly sent by Rory Kehoe. Coloured
version of above. |
Above postcard, circa 1907, kindly sent by Rory Kehoe. |
Above postcard, 1908, kindly sent by Rory Kehoe. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above postcard circa 1911, kindly sent by Paul Wells. Showing the
Chequer in the livery of W. E. & J. Rigden's Faversham Brewery. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo circa 1926, kindly sent by Rory Kehoe. |
Above postcard, circa 1927, kindly sent by Rory Kehoe. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photographs taken by Paul Skelton 25 July, 2009. Below is shown
a painting that hangs on the wall inside the pub.
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Above Chequer at Ash, circa 1955.
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Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo showing a sky-shot of the pub. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, date unknown. |
Above photo, circa 2000, showing licensees Stephen and Maureen Gee. |
The Chequer Inn at Ash-next-Sandwich, another ancient timbered house, is
connected with the medieval manor of Chequer Court in the parish, and was
probably built during the fifteenth century. Royalty has slept within its
walls, and the most celebrated owner of the inn was John de Septvans, Lord
Chief Baron of the Exchequer, who risked losing both his head and
inheritance when he joined Jack Cade's rebellion in 1450. Fortunately he was
pardoned and lived another eight years; he is buried in Ash Church.
This was a timbered hall house dating from the reign of Richard II
(1377-1399) in the year of 1383 in the manor of Chequer and Chilton, Ash
next Sandwich, and was for many years the Manor House of Chequer and
Chilton.
The property then was owned by one John de Septvans, Lord Chief Baron or
of the exchequer, from which the house later derived its name. The property
remained in the hands of the Septvan family, (sometimes known as the
Harfleets) for almost a century and a half.
When first built the house was a standard Hall-House with detached
kitchen and cost £20. In 1558 a hall floor or upper floor was inserted. In 1576 stacks
were added and the parlour chamber was ceilinged over and attic rooms added.
At this date the property was held by on Nicholas HOIGGES a wool merchants
of Canterbury, formerly of London. In 1603, it was in the hands of a William
Leggon, property owner of Canterbury. Leggon owned other properties at
Sandwich, Eastry and Dover.
In 1674, the property was purchased by Thomas Roberts, hop grower and
brewer of Canterbury. Roberts was granted a licence at Dover on May 8th 1674
to supply ales and ciders to the parish of Ash. In 1676 a three bay stable
block was added to the property. In 1708 the house was purchased by Richard
Hollingbury, brewer of the borough of Staplegate within the walls of
Canterbury. In July of that year a joint licence was issued to Hollyingbury
and his wife Elizabeth and they carried on business there. Richard
Hollingbury brewed the ales whilst his wife Elizabeth retailed them.
In the Wingham Division Ale Licence list of 1740, the "Chequers," Ash,
renewed its licence costing the sum of 8 shillings. However, in the same
list there was also a "Chequer" listed in Ash, without the "s" on the end,
which had a new licence granted for the sum of 16 shillings, the licensee
was given as John Cork. I am assuming this to be a different establishment,
but do not yet know the connection between the two.
At the height of the coaching era the Chequer became a established post
house, where mail was collected and sorted. Two post boys were employed at
the Inn for a period of thirty years. Living quarters were provided for them
in an attic room where they slept on small wooden cot beds suspended from
the rafters. On the opposite corner of the inn was the village pond where
they watered their horses. Two post boys employed in 1780's were Jon Silver
and Thomas Mallett and although the term ‘boys' is applied Silver was 63
years old and Mallett 58.
Chequer, Ash - c.1780. It appears to have been tied to a brewery owned by
the prominent Sandwich family, the Wyborns. In 1764 William Wyborn, brewer,
died and his business was left to his daughter Mary, who had married John
Bradley. Their son, William Wyborn Bradley was born in 1752 and by 1784 the
Chequer was mortgaged in his name: William being described as "common brewer
of Sandwich." William was elected Mayor Sandwich in 1785 and died in 1788.
The Sandwich brewery and its tied estate of 27 pubs was eventually put up
for "sale by private contract" by William's son (also called William Wyborn
Bradley, born 1779) as advertised in the Kentish Gazette on 10th May 1822.
It's likely that this is when the Chequer became a Rigden's house, as their
Canterbury brewery (then styled Ridgen, Delmar & Pierce) was expanding its
business rapidly around this time.
The Chequer has seen and undergone many changes since it was first built.
The cost of building the house in the late 14th century was about 20 pounds,
in 1576 it was sold for sixty guineas, in 1721 for £140 , in 1808 for
£816 and in 1874 for £1,086.
Many of the early owners and keepers had various trades and had switched
from or continued to ply them. Thomas Roberts and Thomas Brazier were
formally yenman, Edward Hughes, a bricklayer, Edward Goldup, a coal dealer
who carried out his business as well as keeping the Inn and LLEWELLYN Ames a
caterer and garager who also conducted these trades whilst at the Chequer.
According to the local CAMRA website March 2008 the pub is closed and was for sale.
Glad to say that as of November 2008, the pub opened its doors again with
Richard Munden at the helm of which the above history was kindly passed to
me.
Although changes have taken place the historic character of the Inn
remains unchanged. So stay, enjoy the fayre and reflect on those bygone
days.
In 1755 it was used to billet soldiers, along with the other pubs in the
area.
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Kentish Gazette, 23 September 1851.
MARRIAGE.
Marsh - Wells:— Sept. 14, at Sandwich, captain Marsh to Mrs. Wells,
"Chequers," Ash.
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From the Kentish Chronicle and General Advertiser, 31 August, 1861. Price 1 1/2d.
DEATH FROM EXCESSIVE DRINKING AT ASH.
On Thursday evening T. T. Delasaux, Esq., county coroner, held an
inquest at the “Chequers Inn,” in this parish, touching the death of a
man named James Collard, who died from the effects of drink, as detailed
in the following evidence:— John Wilson, a farmer, said that he had
known the deceased 12 years, and that for the past three weeks he had
been in a state of intoxication. That morning, between 1 and 4 o'clock,
witness was called by Impell and Psyden, and in consequence went with
them, and found the deceased lying in the main road, making one of
improper language. He asked him what he meant, and getting up he said he
would murder witness, and attempted to throttle him. Witness pushed the
deceased away, but he went at him a second time, and then witness called
for assistance, as he believed the deceased to be mad. Psyden, John
Stone and Bighurst accordingly came, and they led him towards his house,
and he shortly after died. Mr. John Sladden, surgeon, deposed that he
had examined the body of the deceased, and the only marks thereon were
slight bruises, no doubt caused by falls. From the appearance of the
deceased and from the detailed statements made to him, witness was of
opinion that the deceased died from disease of the brain, brought on by
excessive drinking. The jury returned a verdict to that effect.
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From the Dover Express and East Kent Intelligencer,
2 March, 1877. Price 1d.
SHORT WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
Charles Clayson, publican, Ash, fined 15s, and 8s. costs for having
six incorrect measures.
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From the Dover Express and East Kent Intelligencer,
9 February, 1877. Price 1d.
WINGHAM PETTY SESSIONS
Charles Clayson, landlord of the "Chequers' Inn," at Ash, pleaded
guilty to serving gin to a boy under 16 years of age. It appeared that
the boys on quitting the "Marquis
of Granby" entered the defendant's house, and were there supplied
with nine-penny-worth of gin (in two lots) by Clayson's wife. It was
argued that it was not known by the landlady that spirits were intended
for the lad to whom it was supplied (aged it was said only 11 years) but
for his companions who were somewhat older.
Defendant was fined 20s., costs 15s.
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From the Dover Express and East Kent Intelligencer,
2 March, 1877. Price 1d.
SHORT WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
Charles Clayson, beer house keeper, Ash fined 15s. and 8s. costs for
having six incorrect measures.
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Canterbury Journal, Kentish Times and Farmers' Gazette, Saturday 25
October 1884.
ASH-NEXT-SANDWICH. Fatal Accident.
The East Kent Coroner (R. M. Mercer, Esq.) on Thursday held an inquest
at the "Chequers Inn," in the parish of Ash-next-Sandwich, on the body
of Sydney Beer, a farm labourer, who was killed by a fall from a stack.
Elisabeth Beer, deceased's widow, said her husband was about 55 years of
age, and he resided at Knell, in the pariah of Ash-next-Sandwich.
Mr. George Henry Kinch, surgeon, said:- Yesterday at about 2.15 p.m. I
was sent for to go to Mr. Adams' farm to see a man who had fallen from a
stack, and who, the messenger said, was badly hurt. I went directly and
found deceased propped up sgainst a straw stack by the side of the road.
He was quite dead. I think he died from concussion, which would leave no
mark. I could find no marks on his body at all.
Moses Jones, a labourer in the employ of Mr. Allen, a thrashing machine
owner, said:- Yesterday I was at work at Mr. Adams' thrashing. The
deceased was on the top of the stack stacking the straw. He was the only
man on the top of the stack. I took my bundle of straw up and he took
it. He was then standing near the centre of the stack. The next thing I
heard was a cry from the man who went up the ladder with the next bundle
of straw that the stacker was gone. I went round to the other side of
the stack, and I found deceased lying on his back. His eyes were open, I
saw Henry Jarvis giving him some brandy. He died then and there. There
was some straw slipped out just where he lay. I do not know how he could
have fallen.
Henry Jarvis, a labourer, gave corroborative evidence. He said he could
see where the straw had slipped on the stack, and a lot of straw had
come down with deceased. Deceased did not live more than three or four
minutes after he fall, if that. He fell about 12 or 13 ft. He was
perfectly sober.
The jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death."
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Whitstable Times and Herne Bay Herald, Saturday 14 April 1888.
Conviction of an Excise Officer.
James John Kay, and Inland Revenue Officer, was summoned for refusing to
quit the "Chequers Inn," Ash, on the 16th March.
I.C. Sutton deposed that at 11:15 o'clock on the night of the 16th of
March he saw a four wheel carriage standing outside the "Chequers Inn."
Defendant was there drunk, and arguing with Mr. Jordan of Wingham, as to
the fair.
The landlord said he had asked defendant to leave and refused to supply
him with any drink. Defendant refused to leave the house, and witness
had to eject him by order of the landlord.
Defendant staggered about and fell down, and he had to take him home.
Valentine Hobday, landlord of the "Chequers," said defendant was drunk.
Defendant said he was not intoxicated. He had been about all day
driving, and was not in very good health.
Fined £2 and costs.
Superintendent Kewell said the man's conduct and certainly been very
strange of late.
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From the Whitstable Times, 4 August 1900.
ASH SUICIDE.
The East Kent Coroner (B. M. Mercer, Esq.) held an inquest at the
"Chequers Inn," Ash, on Friday, touching the death of George Tumber,
aged 63. It appeared that deceased, who was a single man, drank very
heavily at times. He was a labourer and was in regular employment. At 4
o'clock in the morning he got up and went out, and nothing more was seen
of him till the afternoon, when he was found suspended by a rope to a
tree in a plantation at the back of the public house. The jury returned
a verdict of Suicide, but there was no evidence to show the state of
deceased's mind.
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This is an application for exemption from military
service as heard by the Eastry Rural District Tribunal on Monday 12th
June 1916 and reported in the Dover Express on 16th June. There had been
so many cases that the tribunal suggested two sittings in the following
week.
Dover Express on 16th June 1916.
Llewellyn S. H. Amos 37, the licensee of he “Chequers Inn”, Ash appealed
on the grounds of financial and domestic hardship. Three months
exemption granted.
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Dover Express 22nd September 1916.
Eastry Rural District Tribunal 20th September 1916.
L. S. H. Amos “Chequers” Inn, Ash aged 37 publican. One month to 20th
October, 1916. Not renewable.
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From Dover Express 09 December 1932.
EAST KENT NEWS. ASH. DART MATCH.
The "Chequers" Inn team received a visit from the "Crown and Septre,"
Acol, on Monday evening, and lost by five games to one. The company were
entertained to supper by Mr. and Mrs. G. J. Wilson, which was followed
by a social evening with Reg Oliver at the piano. |
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Dover Express 30th April 1943.
ASH – FOOTBALL.
The Regimental final was played on Tuesday at Eythorne between two R A
teams. After a very exciting and keen game the result was 1-0. A very
enjoyable evening was spent at the “Chequers” Inn, Ash, at which the O C
and Battery officers attended.
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East Kent Times and Mail, Friday 19 January 1973.
New Landlord at Ancient Pub.
A member of Ramsgate Round Table and former catering manager at
Pegwell Bay Hoverport achieved his lifelong ambition last week.
Mr. Bill Wayman moved to Ash where he is now landlord of the 400
year-old "Chequers Inn."
He was trained at the Westminster Hotel School and employed by an
industrial catering concern in the city of London before coming to
Thanet in January, 1971.
33 year old Bill and his wife Frances have two children, Emma, 7,
and 4 year-old Neil.
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From the Dover Mercury, 28 February, 2002.
REGULARS at the Chequer Inn, Ash, helped to raise more than £800 for
the Cancer Research charity.
A pool knockout contest, reflexology evening, raffIes and wine and
wisdom competition all helped to boost the total as well as sponsorship
for customer Geoff Richardson who ran the London Marathon.
Publican, Steve and Maureen Gee and customers handed over the giant
cheque to the charity's Kate Hunter on Friday.
Maureen said: "All the customers were very generous in helping and
supporting our chosen charity of the year. The reason Cancer Research
was chosen was because we lost a young member of our family to the
disease."
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From the Dover Mercury, 22 January, 2009.
AT THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE
Chequer Inn landlord Richard Munden outside his pub.
A NEW
licensee at the "Chequer Inn" at Ash is determined to make the pub the hub
of the village community.
The distinctive-looking building overlooks The Street and has been in
business since a hop grower bought it in 1674 to supply ales and ciders
to the parish.
Richard Munden is now in charge and is full of plans to make the inn an
important part of the neighbourhood. He said: "The Chequer is a
traditional village pub and we are looking to make it the heart of the
community."
As part of his plans he is organising an Eighties party night, to
include fancy dress, next week with a disco to launch Leukaemia Research
as
the charity of the year.
Richard added: "We are aiming to raise £1,500 from a series of
fundraising events in 2009 and hopefully we can smash that target."
The fun starts at
8pm on Saturday, January 31, and there will be prizes
for the best-dressed male and female.
Since arriving in Ash in November Richard has introduced a series of pub
events, with entertainment a
top priority.
New quiz nights have proved successful and are held at 7.30pm on the
first and third Tuesday of the month, with an entry of £2 per person and
wine or chocolates for the winning team. There is a folk club
sing-around on the second and fourth Monday of the month from 8pm and
Adrian O, who lives near Deal, is a regular performer.
Bingo is held every Thursday afternoon from 3pm, with bingo books on
sale from 2.30pm.
Richard said: "We have just started a credit munch offer, with two main
meals for £6 every Wednesday and Thursday between noon and 3pm and again
from 6 to 9pm."
Forthcoming events at The Chequer Inn include celebrations for St
Patrick's Day and St George's Day and an art exhibition in September.
Every Wednesday there is also a Wii games session at 7.30pm,
with a £2 entrance and prizes for winners.
If customers to the inn in
Chequer Lane would prefer a glass of real ale beside a log fire, just
like centuries ago, they can enjoy Spitfire and Greene King's IPA on
hand pull.
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From the Dover Mercury, 2 April, 2009.
PUBS PREPARE FOR HUGE TOAST
VILLAGE pubs in Ash and Great Mongeham are appealing for help to set
a record for the World's Biggest Toast.
Drinkers at 6,000 pubs across the country will simultaneously raise
their glasses at 7pm on Saturday, April 11, in honour of cask beer.
The "Chequer Inn" at Ash and the "Three
Horseshoes" at Great Mongeham are taking part.
"Chequer" licensee Richard Munden said: “We are asking the people of
Ash to have a bit of fun together, showing support for their local,
celebrating cask beer and helping make history.” To mark the event, the
pub will host a beer festival from Thursday, April 9, to Monday, April
13.
"Three Horseshoes"
landlord Sam Rodwell said: “In order to make the world record official
we need as many people as possible to visit our pub.”
■ For details, call The "Chequer" on 01304 813918 or the "Three
Horseshoes" on 01304 375812, or visit
www.caskaleweek.co.uk
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From the Dover Express, 2 April, 2009
Pub's cask ales in great condition
A PUB in Ash has won an award for the quality of its ale.
Richard Munden, licensee of The Chequer Inn, has been awarded Cask
Marque accreditation for serving the perfect pint of cask-conditioned
ale.
Mr Munden said: "This award is a great endorsement for us. A lot of
our customers visit the pub especially for the cask ale and it is really
gratifying to know that we are getting the formula just right."
To achieve the Cask Marque accreditation pubs' ales must pass a
series of beer quality audits which take into account, temperature,
appearance, aroma and taste.
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From the Dover Mercury, 14 September, 2009.
PUB TAKES UP CHALLENGE FOR A GOOD CAUSE
AN ASH pub is pulling in the punters and raising cash for a good
cause this year, with the next event set to collect more money. The
"Chequer Inn," Chequer Lane, decided to support Leukaemia Research as
its charity of the year with a £1,500 target. Licensee Richard Munden
said: “We put the idea of supporting a charity for a year and asked them
for suggestions as to which charity. “We had a few suggestions and
Leukaemia Research proved to be popular.” The next big charity event
is a quiz night on Tuesday, July 7, when the pub's Winter Quiz League
champions The Axis of Ignorance have accepted a challenge to try to beat
the rest of the pub. The charity year started on January 31 with a
1980s theme party night. Other activities since have included a race
night, a number of raffles, sweepstakes and a tombola at a family fun
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From the Dover Mercury, 14 September, 2009.
Skye's the limit for the tallest sunflower
 TRADITIONALLY,
the talk at the local pub ranges from international politics to what's
happening on Coronation Street and East Enders.
But regulars at The Chequer Inn at Ash have had another topic of
conversation this year to occupy the minds - sunflowers.
Back in April, new licensee Richard Munden launched a competition to
grow the tallest sunflower.
The pub, in the centre of the village, distributed sunflower seeds to
the children and grandchildren of the regulars, as well as Scouts and
Brownies and other children from Ash.
The deadline was the end of August and Richard then went out and
about to measure and validate the tallest.
Richard said: "Having never grown sunflowers as a child I was amazed
when presented with sunflowers more than 11ft tall."
The winner was Skye Burr with a sunflower that towered at an
impressive 11ft 4in.
In a very close second was Ellie Larkins and third was Georgia
Alexander.
"I would like to say well done to everyone who took part," said
Richard.
"Next year we will see If we can beat this height."
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From the Dover Mercury, 25 March, 2010.
FINE BEERS.
The "Chequer Inn," Ash, has its second beer festival starting next
week from April 1 until Monday, April 5, and the events will include
fundraising for the pub's chosen charity, Greet Ormond street Hospital.
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From the Dover Mercury, 1 April, 2010.
PUB GARDEN PLOTS ARE A DOWN TO EARTH OFFER.
KEEN gardeners desperate for an allotment are being offered a plot in
Ash to grow fruit and vegetables.
The plots come with the added attraction of a short stroll to quench
a thirst after an enthusiastic digging session.
For Richard Munden, licensee of The "Chequer Inn," Ash, has created a
veg patch in the pub garden.
He said: "There is much emphasis these days on home grown produce and
food miles, plus waiting lists for allotments.
"So I have decided to turn a small area of our beer garden into three
vegetable patches and am now appealing for allotment holders."
The idea started after a compost tip behind the pub became an eyesore
and needed to be removed. Now the heap has gone Mr Munden has created
three allotments and is now looking for a trio of keen people living
nearby who would like to transform the small area into a horticultural
haven.
Mr Munden added: "We are not asking for a rent, instead a produce
split has been suggested. The pub's share of the fruit and veg will be
used in the pub kitchen. "I believe our customers will be pleased to be
eating fresh ingredients grown in our back garden."
Anyone Interested in an allotment in the centre of Ash can contact
Richard on 01304 813918.
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From the Dover Mercury, 3 March, 2011.
PUB AIDS CHARITY
PLANS for two charity events are taking shape at a village pub.
Starting next week there will be a race night in aid of the amateur
drama group The New Ash Players.
It is at The "Chequer Inn," Ash, on March 12 at 8pm.
A bi-annual charity quiz night takes place at the Chequer Lane pub on
March 29 in aid of the pub's charity of the year. Great Ormond Street
Hospital,
The questions start at 7.30pm and the cost is £3 a person to include
bar nibbles.
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From the Dover Mercury, 21 April, 2011.
An extension to the usual five-day Easter beer festival at the
"Chequer Inn" will celebrate the Royal Wedding in style.
Running from Good Friday, through to Bank Holiday Monday, May 2, the
festival includes entertainment and 18 ales.
Live music, the Easter Egg Scramble, paper aeroplane competition and
a learn to play Bat & Trap Session, plus a Royal Wedding garden party on
Friday, April 29.
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From the Deal and Sandwich Express, 27 October, 2011.
ELEVENTH-HOUR BID SAVES PUB PROM RECESSION
CHEQUERS SAVED FROM SHUTTING.
Report by Sam Inkersole
An historic village pub has been saved from closure after temporary
landlords entered an eleventh hour bid for the business.
After serving alcohol to the parish of Ash for 337 years, the
"Chequers Inn" was due to close it s doors to the regulars tomorrow
(Friday).
SAVED
But the pub's owners, Punch Taverns, has revealed that the
establishment has now been saved from closure after a short-term
licensee was found.
Outgoing landlord Richard Munden, who has run the pub for three
years, told the Express how sad he was to be leaving the "Chequers," one
of only two remaining pubs in Ash.
He said: "It is entirely down to the recession that we are having to
leave the pub.
"It has been immensely fun running it, but when your takings are down
40 per cent from the same time last year, something has to give.
"The bingo ladies who come in every Tuesday are particularly upset at
the news.
"We had some fantastic events here.
"I can't pick a favourite, but I have loved every minute of being
here.
"My wife still works full-time at Pfizer, but she has been made
redundant as of next year.
"We will just have to wait and see what happens between now and
then."
CELEBRATIONS
Mr. Munden is having a leaving celebration tomorrow.
A spokesman for Punch Taverns said: "We are pleased to confirm that
the "Chequers" is not closing and we will have new licensees operating
the pub from October 31st.
"The pub is still owned by Punch Taverns.
"The new licenses are only going in as temporary operators."
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From the Dover Express, Thursday, 12
July , 2012. 65p. Report by Phil Hayes
ACTOR TAKES OVER RUNNING OF PUB
BARTENDER: Soap star Stuart Antony has taken over The "Chequer."
Soap star promises a family venue
AN EASTENDERS actor who has also played Batman's stunt double and
made a BBC film featuring, a porn star has now taken over a pub near
Sandwich.
He has played the part of Simon White - friend to Queen Vic owner,
Alfie Moon - but now Stuart Antony, 25, is trying out pint-pulling for
real after re-opening The "Chequer Inn" in Ash last week.
Mr Antony was drafted in as landlord by the pub's owners Punch
Taverns following a successful renovation project at a Rochester tavern
which the soap star has now left.
The actor said things had gone well at The "Chequers" so far: “It's
been brilliant. I'm enjoying getting to know the locals.
“The owners wanted me to come in and turn the place around. A lot of
the old regulars have come back down and there's a nice community
spirit.”
The former soap star said he is still acting and “quite a few of the
Eastenders lot want to come down to the pub.”
But Mr Antony said there will be no drastic changes at The
"Chequers," where he plans to stay for some time.
“I'm here for good. I want to keep it very much a local, family pub.
There's no point trying to make it something it's not.”
As well as acting in Eastenders, Mr Antony played Christian Bale's
stunt double in Batman Begins and also made a film for the BBC starring
Lindsay Honey - better known as British porn star Ben Dover.
“I've become more famous for that than anything else! We are still
really good friends.”
The actor said he hopes to get some live bands in to The "Chequers"
and is pleased to have the regulars back on board.
He said: “Everyone's been really helpful. I've been waiting for a
month to get started and now I am ready for business.”
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From the Dover Express, Thursday, 8 November, 2012. 65p.
Report by Phil Hayes
FAMOUS LANDLORD IN REAL-LIFE PUB DRAMA
Former soap actor lucky to be alive after accident
AN EASTENDERS actor turned landlord was rushed to hospital last week
after one of his pub windows fell on his head and knocked him out.
Stuart Antony, 25, was taking down decorations from a Hallowe'en party
at The "Chequer Inn" in Ash when he was whacked by a cast-iron frame.
The former Batman stunt double suffered swelling to the brain and
doctors have said he is “very lucky to be alive” after he was hit just
3cm from his temple.
“I really thought I was on my way out,” Mr Antony said.
The father-of-one has been prescribed morphine to ease the “severe pain”
as he recovers at home.
“At the moment the brain is pushing against the skull. I keep being sick
loads,” he said.
Mr Antony was found on the floor of his pub at around 10am on Saturday,
November 27, by his girlfriend Katie who was looking after their
11-month-old daughter, Lily.
He was taken by ambulance to hospital in Canterbury, then to the William
Harvey in Ashford and finally to The Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in
Margate.
The glass inside the 13th century window frame remained intact during
the incident and the window has now been refitted.
An investigation into how the accident occurred is underway.
This is the second time Mr Antony has suffered a head injury in recent
times. Three years ago he fell over in the snow and started bleeding
from the ear.
He said he hopes to return to work doing voice-overs for Radio One soon.
The actor took over The "Chequer Inn," near Sandwich, this summer after
being drafted in by the pub's owners - Punch Taverns.
Mr Antony, who played the part of Simon White - friend to Queen Vic
owner, Alfie Moon - in EastEnders, had made a promising start as a
real-life landlord.
“It's been brilliant. I'm enjoying getting to know the locals,” he said
in July.
Regulars
“The owners wanted me to come in and turn the place around. A lot of the
old regulars have come back down and there's a nice community spirit.”
The former soap actor was also set to attract some celebrities to The
"Chequer Inn."
He said “quite a few of the EastEnders lot” wanted to come down to the
pub as well as British porn star Ben Dover - who starred in a
documentary Mr Antony directed for the BBC.
The "Chequer Inn" is set to re-open tomorrow (Friday 9).
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From an email received 14 November 2012
Hi,
Just wanted to say thank you for including our client and
current landlord Stuart Antony into your information site about The
Chequer Inn, Ash, and wanted to send you some more information about
Stuart as he has quite an interesting background.
AN EASTENDERS actor who has
also played Batman's stunt double and made a BBC film featuring a porn
star has now taken over a pub near Sandwich.
He has played the part of Simon White – friend to Queen Vic owner, Alfie
Moon – but now Stuart Antony, 25, is trying out pint-pulling for real
after re-opening The "Chequer Inn" in Ash last week.
Mr Antony was drafted in as landlord by the pub's owners Punch Taverns
following a successful renovation project at a Rochester tavern which
the soap star has now left.
The actor said things had gone well at The
"Chequers" so far: "It's been
brilliant. I'm enjoying getting to know the locals.
"The owners wanted me to come in and turn the place around. A lot of the
old regulars have come back down and there's a nice community spirit."
The former soap star said he is still acting and "quite a few of the
Eastenders lot want to come down to the pub."
But Mr Antony said there will be no drastic changes at The
"Chequers,"
where he plans to stay for some time.
"I'm here for good. I want to keep it very much a local, family pub.
There's no point trying to make it something it's not."
As well as acting in Eastenders, Mr Antony played Christian Bale's stunt
double in Batman Begins and also made a film for the BBC starring
Lindsay Honey – better known as British porn star Ben Dover.
"I've become more famous for that than anything else! We are still
really good friends."
The actor said he hopes to get some live bands in to The
"Chequers" and is
pleased to have the regulars back on board.
He said: "Everyone's been really helpful. I've been waiting for a month
to get started and now I am ready for business."
Stuart is now one of Britain's most talented, Established and versatile
actors and since then he has appeared an Impressive array of films
including Mrs Henderson Presents, Batman Begins, Green Street and How to
Lose Friends and Alienate People. Alongside the likes of Dame Judi Dench,
Megan Fox, Simon Pegg, Elijah Wood, Michael Caine, Bob Hoskins,
Christian Bale and Katie Holmes. Stuart's Comedy Appearances Include Bo
Selecta, the All Star Comedy Show, Monkey Trousers, Little Miss Jocelyn
and The multi Award winning Little Britain. In 2012 Stuart will be
appearing in Brit flick Light the Lights as Harry Wood alongside Calum
Best.
AN EASTENDERS actor turned landlord was rushed to hospital last week
(27th Oct 2012) after one of his pub windows fell on his head and
knocked him out.
Stuart Antony, 25, was taking down decorations from a Hallowe'en party
at The "Chequer Inn" in Ash when he was whacked by a cast-iron frame.
The former Batman stunt double suffered swelling to the brain and
doctors have said he is "very lucky to be alive" after he was hit just
3cm from his temple.
"I really thought I was on my way out," Mr Antony said.
The father-of-one has been prescribed morphine to ease the "severe pain"
as he recovers at home.
"At the moment the brain is pushing against the skull. I keep being sick
loads," he said.
Mr Antony was found on the floor of his pub at around 10am on Saturday,
November 27, 2012.
He was taken by ambulance to hospital in Canterbury, then to the William
Harvey in Ashford and finally to The Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in
Margate.
The glass inside the 13th century window frame remained intact during
the incident and the window has now been refitted.
An investigation into how the accident occurred is underway.
This is the second time Mr Antony has suffered a head injury in recent
times. Three years ago he fell over in the snow and started bleeding
from the ear.
He said he hopes to return to work doing voice-overs for Radio One soon.
The actor took over The
"Chequer Inn," near Sandwich, this summer after
being drafted in by the pub's owners – Punch Taverns.
Mr Antony, who played the part of Simon White – friend to Queen Vic
owner, Alfie Moon – in EastEnders, had made a promising start as a
real-life landlord.
"It's been brilliant. I'm enjoying getting to know the locals," he said
in July.
"The owners wanted me to come in and turn the place around. A lot of the
old regulars have come back down and there's a nice community spirit."
The former soap actor is also set to attract some celebrities to The
"Chequer Inn" including some of his former cast mates.
He said "quite a few of the EastEnders lot" wanted to come down to the
pub as well as British porn star Ben Dover – who starred in a
documentary Mr Antony directed for the BBC.
The Chequer Inn is set to re-open tomorrow (Friday 9 Nov 2012).
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I am informed that the pub is closed (October 2014) and that permission
is being sought to convert it into a four bedroom house. It is currently for
sale at £300,000.
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From the East Kent Mercury, 23 July 2015.
Scheme to turn historic village pub into a home.
A village pub dating back to the 14th century is set to be turned into a
home. The new owner of the "Chequer Inn" at Ash has applied to change its use
after the timberframed pub has sat idle for about 18 months, with
successive landlords unable to make a go of it. Now, following its sale by Punch Taverns, a planning application has
been submitted to Dover District Council, including building a new house
with garage at the back of the pub. Architect and agent Nick Blake says there will be a "sensitive
modification" of the building, which was originally built as a house and
became a pub in the 18th century. He said:- "The last few licensees tried to run it as a pub but it did not
provide an adequate livelihood. The change to a dwelling will enable the
Grade II-listed building to be upgraded and restored. "The pub garden was used for games and led to complaints about noise
from neighbours. The conversion and construction of a new house will
lead to less traffic movement and disturbance." Mr Blake says the new house behind the pub would be "distinctive" in
design, but make a
"positive contribution" to the site, which is next to a conservation
area. The permanent loss of the inn will leave just one pub in the village,
the "Volunteer." Ash parish council chairman Graham Foat said:- "The pub has been closed
for quite a while and there hasn't been a great clamour to save it.
"The parish council will consider the application and make a formal
decision shortly." Believed to be the oldest surviving property in Ash the
"Chequer Inn" has
a long and distinguished history. For a century and-a-half,
it was owned by John de, Septvans, Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer, (from where its name derives,) and his descendents. In 1708, the house
was bought by Richard Hollingbury, brewer of the
borough of Staplegate within the walls of Canterbury. In July, of that year a
joint licence was issued to Hollingbury and his wife Elizabeth. Hollingbury brewed the ales and his wife sold them. At the height of the coaching era, the
"Chequer" also became an
established post house, where mail was collected and sorted. |
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From the Dover Express, 5 November 2015.
Pub conversion.
ASH: A once popular pub, the Chequer Inn at Ash, is set to be converted
into a residential property if consent is agreed by the planners.
The property, with origins believed to go back to the 1400s, was built
as a home but converted to an inn in the 18th century. The applicant, Mr
A Butcher, of Wickhambreaux, says the business is unviable.
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From the Dover Mercury, 31 December 2015. By Emily Stott.
Villagers fight to save historic pub.
Residents in Ash are fighting to save a historic pub from plans which
could see it turned into housing.
Matthew Titterton, 37, of The Street, Ash, is leading the Save The
Chequer Inn campaign following an application to close it as a pub.
Dover District Council received many objections to the application and
any decision has now been stalled until a hearing in January.
More than 130 residents gathered at the village hall last week to
discuss the next steps and the fight ahead.
Mr Titterton said: “It’s heartbreaking to think that a wonderful
historic pub that has been the heart of the community for well over 300
years can stay closed.
“The recent community group meeting highlighted the massive weight of
support that a new, high quality public house would benefit from in the
village.
“The local voices at the meeting were keen to have a venue that was not
sport and beer specific but that would provide a community focus as a
venue for the many groups and clubs in the surrounding area.”
The Grade n listed 15th century
coach-house could be turned into
a house and garage, and another house placed in the garden.
Residents have completed an Asset of Community Value nomination which if
accepted means DDC would have to list the pub as a community asset.
Mr Titterton claims DDC did place a AC V on the pub but this was removed
after opposition from developers.
Deal resident and actor Neil Stuke has also been supporting the
campaign, and parliamentary group Save the Pub also strongly objects to
the proposal.
In a report, it said: “The Chequer is a 15th century building and
designated heritage asset, and keeping it as a pub ensures that the
entire community has access to this heritage, rather than limiting it to
two wealthy householders. The Chequer’s use as a pub is a key part of
its character as a heritage building.
“Allowing this viable pub to be changed into residential housing would
be an act of vandalism, as well as destroying this ancient.
A meeting to oppose plans to turn The Chequer Inn in Ash into homes
community facility.”
In a design and access statement, developers claim The Chequer Inn was
not a viable business and this is why previous owners put it up for
sale.
Mr Titterton claims it had a turnover of £12,000 a month before it
closed but rent and beer costs led to it being unsuccessful.
Mr Stuke, who has starred in dramas Silk and Doctor Foster, is keen to
restore a closed down pub like this.
Mr Titterton said: “His skills and commitment to saving our heritage
make him the perfect choice to front a project like this and we’re lucky
to have him as the face of our campaign.
“There have been a few meetings with broadcasters and, due to the
background story we have, and the sense of community from our village,
The Chequer Inn is high on their list.”
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From the Dover Express, 14 January, 2016.
HUG THE PUB: Villagers in Ash gathered at the Chequer Inn
Campaigners hope to buy the pub and reopen it “for the community”.
A television documentary could be made about the pub’s reopening, the
meetings heard.
On Sunday, about 150 villagers gathered on the steps of the Chequer Inn
to show support for the campaign.
Paul Hollywood tweeted about the Red Lion: “I'm all for saving the
Red
Lion Wingham”
A statement by the pub’s owner said they had been bought with potential
for conversion to homes because they were not profitable as businesses.
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From an email received 14 February 2016.
SAVE THE CHEQUER INN February 2016.
It is widely accepted that rural pubs play an important part in
village communities, inspiring a sense of belonging and ownership that
is possibly unique to this traditional meeting place. The addition of
200 houses in Ash could further isolate villagers from one another if
the bulk of socialising and dining is carried out in the bigger towns,
so a reclaimed "Chequer Inn" could be seen as a staunch protector of our
village identity and the parish would benefit from retaining it as a hub
for community gatherings and activities.
At the beginning of last year the Parish Council submitted an ‘Asset of
Community Value’ to Dover District Council. This would have been the
first step in ensuring that the beautiful Grade II listed building
remained a pub and was protected from redevelopment in the conservation
area. However, the developer successfully appealed and has since
submitted plans to change the use of the pub to a residential dwelling
including a garage with full internal and external alterations to the
historic building. The development proposed will mummify the building;
preserving its body, but removing its spirit.
Spurred on by this, a second 'ACV' was submitted just before Christmas
by a steering group led by Matthew Titterton. A meeting was held in the
Church in mid-December, where 130 villagers attended to air their views
and suggest what they would like to see in a revamped "Chequer Inn." A pub
restaurant providing locally sourced food and locally brewed ales was
the main ambition, that would also provide a community focus for many of
the village’s clubs and groups in an establishment that could provide a
warm and welcoming environment. This information was put into a business
plan to be assessed by Council officers. Following this meeting,
currently 90 objections have been lodged on the DDC website, which
forced the Council to discuss the matter at an open planning meeting.
A second village meeting was held in the Church in early January to
update everyone on the latest situation and introduce four speakers who
have lent their support to our cause.
The first was TV journalist/producer who explained that she was pitching
a programme where a local pub is renovated and then given back to the
community, and that the "Chequers" was the favourite option after becoming
passionate about saving it. She explained that Ash is one of hundreds of
villages up and down Britain who have banded together to save their pub,
and has put the steering committee in touch with others who have
successfully been through this process.
Actor Neil Stuke, a fierce and passionate campaigner, talked of his
childhood growing up in Deal, when the streets contained butchers,
bakers and small businesses, and everyone met each other in the village
pub.
Our third speaker Alex Lister is leading the fight for the "Red Lion" in Wingham, and he explained how his ACV was turned down as he met with one
of the Councillors and was told that he had thereby 'infringed the
developer's human rights'!
Our last speaker, Mark Dodds FRSA (Publican and ‘Pub Persuader’), is a
publican from London who has been helping groups like us fight national
pub companies. He said that 29 pubs a week are lost to redevelopment and
he wanted to expose the myth that there was no longer the support for
pubs and that was why they were going out of business. He told the
meeting that big 'PubCo's' deliberately increase rents and charges for
barrels of beer in order to put successful landlords out of business
(The "Chequers" turnover averaged £12,000/month a few years ago managed by
Richard Munden with rent in his first year starting at £600/month and
quadrupling). PubCo’s then put in a series of ineffective managers who
alienate the regulars, so they can sell the pub as de-licensed and not
viable to a developer. A perfectly legal clause allows the PubCo’s to
take some of the profits made from any housing/shops that are created.
The meeting was very positive about the future of the campaign and a
great deal of support was pledged. Russ Timpson suggested starting a
‘fighting fund’ to cover immediate expenses which we have earmarked for
legal advice.
On the Sunday following the meeting, a demonstration with 150 villagers
was held outside the pub to raise the public profile, with children
holding up big letters spelling out 'Save The Chequer Inn' and many
adults with banners and posters! Craig Mackinlay, the Conservative MP
for South Thanet, and an official from CAMRA were among the protesters
who were filmed and photographed for the local press. Craig told Media
“There are a lot of people very keen for this pub to be up and running
and I would encourage Dover Council to accept the ACV application. Pubs
are the heart of our community and this historic pub should not be
lost.”
The Planning Officer’s report was released ahead of the DDC Planning
Meeting that was scheduled for 21st January, and - as expected - was in
favour of the development. However, it was very one sided, and the group
wanted the Councillors to hear more of the village’s side of the story.
To win at the hearing, an alternative planning report had to be provided
to give the Councillors evidence that the Planning Officer’s version was
flawed.
Thanks to Neil Stuke’s contacts within in the legal world, we had over
ten thousand pounds of advice, pro bono, from one of the top planning
QCs in the UK. He said the Planning Officer’s report was full of holes
and there was a very strong case against change of use. He offered a
discounted rate of £1750 + VAT (half his usual daily rate) in order to
produce an alternative document. In a meeting in the Church on 18th
January, over 100 villagers raised the money to pay for the QC’s report,
illustrating the passion that the community has for this project.
Every Councillor at Dover District Council received a series of emails
from the campaign in the week that the Planning Meeting was due to take
place. A 50 page report opposing the proposed development was sent with
nearly 1000 pages of appendices.
As a result of this report, the "Chequer Inn" was taken off the agenda for
January’s Planning Meeting. This was a wonderful victory and meant that
the Councillors were taking the time to read everything through
thoroughly. A new report will be written up by the Planning Officer for
a new meeting date.
Since then Dover District Council announced that the "Chequer Inn" has
been listed again as an Asset of Community Value. Another victory for
the group!
As this campaign grows, more and more villagers are getting involved,
more and more media coverage is being generated, and the need for a
community space in the village is becoming more and more apparent. We
now have around 600 social media followers and an email database of
nearly 200 villagers who have subscribed to receive updates.
There is a lot of support in Ash for keeping our lovely pub as a
community asset, but there is also the finance and expertise to have the
"Chequer Inn" up and running again.
Anyone interest in the progress of Save The Chequer Inn group can follow
us on Twitter @SaveChequerInn - or Facebook -
http://www.facebook.com/savethechequerinn
(Click the LIKE button).
Demo Video https://youtu.be/gm6odcR-bGs
Matt Titterton.
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From an email received 19 April 2016.
We did it! We aimed to save The Chequer Inn from conversion to a
single dwelling by a property developer, and on 25th February 2016 we
won our battle. Plans to turn the 15th century pub into a house were
refused by a planning committee at Dover District Council, where around
60 residents turned out to show their support with banners and posters.
The committee unanimously voted against the Planning Officer’s advice
and saved the pub from change of use after seeing the large support it
had from our community.
Matthew Titterton spoke for 6 minutes on why Dover District Council
should reject the application, followed by Sue Chandler, chairman of
Dover District Council and Ash resident, who highlighted the important
part the pub has to play in the community. The committee said that they
did not believe the pub had been marketed properly and that this was why
it was not taken up after the last landlords ran it in late 2013 to
early 2014.
Cllr Bill Gardner admitted that he had changed his mind during the
course of the meeting. He said that he had come to the council offices
with the opinion of “use it or lose it” but concluded: “I think the
people of Ash should be given an opportunity to see if it could work.”
Cllr Andrew Richardson echoed this, saying: “It is clear that this pub
is valued, I can see that from the level of support in the village. We
need to find another way to give the village another chance to make this
work.”
On 1st March DDC received notice from the owners of their intention to
sell the property. We are delighted with the news and the Asset of
Community Value status allows us to slow down the sale process so that
we can spend more time as a community to work out the next step. The
owners have now passed all communications over to a solicitor. Ash
Parish Council triggered the moratorium period until 1st September,
allowing a new community group "ChequerMates" to raise the funds and put
forward a proposal to the owner. During this time, the owner can speak
with others, but he can only exchange contracts with our community
group.
Matt Titterton.
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From the Dover Mercury, 18 August, 2016.
Community-run pub step closer thanks to donation.
A group in Ash has been awarded a £2,500 bursary to help
purchase The Chequer Inn as a community-run pub.
The ChequerMates steering group formed after campaigners
saved the historic pub from being converted into housing earlier
this year. Since then they have been working on a bid for the
listed building.
To keep the momentum going, the group held a pub-themed
night at Ash Village Hall on Friday with more than 150 people
attending.
Drinks were supplied by Gadds and Ripple Steam Brewery and a
hog roast was cooked by Pigs & Bread Catering.
Matthew Titterton, organiser and member of the group, said:
“The evening proved there is a huge market for the return of the
family-friendly restaurant and pub which closed its doors more
than two years ago.
“Along with a coffee morning held the week before, £725 was
raised and this will be used towards campaign costs over the
next few months.”
One of the main aims of the evening was to announce the
formation of The Chequer Inn Ash Society - a new community
benefit group which will get funding from grants, loans,
donations
and a community share offer.
The group received the bursary from The Plunkett Foundation’s
More Than A Pub scheme, which is funded by the Department for
Communities and Local Government and The Power to Change
Trust - to help with professional advice and enable the society to
purchase the pub.
The next step has been to try and gain access to the property to
work out what the cost of renovations would be and have an
independent survey conducted.
However, Mr Titterton said so far any attempts at gaining access
to the property have been
unsuccessful.
David Greaves, a fellow member of ChequerMates, said: “The
primary objective of the society is to run The Chequer Inn for the
benefit of the community.
“The more people who are able to pledge a donation or buy
shares, and the wider the section of the community that is
involved in the project, the greater the likelihood of success.
“Due to the paperwork associated with the financial bodies
involved, the society are not yet able to launch a formal share
offer, so at present we are asking for pledges to help gauge the
level of support.
“Tens of thousands have already been pledged and, once the
goal is met, the society will make a formal offer to the owner.
“Anyone who believes in village pubs and community ventures
should show their support by pledging and investing in the
future of the community so that the community hub is run for the
good of everyone.”
The pub’s guide price is £340,000 but the group will need to set
money aside for renovation works and funds for the reopening.
For information or a pledge form, email chequermates@
gmail.com or call David or Jane on 01304 813010.
ChequerMates steering group Ash Village Hall
hosted a pub-themed night at Ash Village Hall.
Picture: Matthew Titterton.
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From the Dover Mercury, 26 November, 2016. By Emily Stott.
Plan to convert pub into home opposed.
Plans to turn a 15th century coach house into a home have been criticised
by residents in Ash.
The "Chequer Inn," Chequer Lane, could be turned into a home and garage if
an application is given the go-ahead.
The main concerns are that a new access road would cut into the garden,
reducing its size and becoming intrusive to neighbouring buildings.
An earlier application to turn the pub garden into another dwelling was
withdrawn earlier this month after it received 27 objections and only
three supporters.
Objectors said the two-storey house would have a detrimental impact on the
surrounding houses and would increase traffic in the area.
The proposal for the Grade II listed pub itself has also faced opposition.
Rebecca Smith, of The Street, Ash, said: “It is pleasing to note that the
entirely inappropriate proposal for a large detached dwelling in the pub
garden has been withdrawn.
“The lack of clarity over the future of the garden needs to be addressed
by the owner before proper consideration can be given to the current
application.
“Without the entire garden the proposed layout destroys the visual aspect
of the conservation area. The proposed ‘garden’ is cramped and, with the
peculiar over-abundance of hedging and fencing, destroys the openness
which has always been a delightful feature of the "Chequer Inn." This
openness contributed to the reasoning behind its original Grade II
listing.
“The proposals utterly destroy the scale of the site which has existed
since the building was erected in the 15th century.”
Residents and neighbours have claimed the four bedroom house would
“overlook and intimidate” neighbouring properties and destroy the visual
aspect of the historic conservation area.
The timber-framed pub sat empty for 18 months, with successive landlords
unable to make a go of it.
At a meeting on Monday, November 16, Ash Parish Council considered the
application and had no objections to the amended proposals.
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Closed 2014.
Latest news October 2017 suggests that the money has been raised to save
the pub and hopefully will reopen again in the future.
Yes indeed, information sent to me in April 2018 says the pub has been
purchased by the Chequer Inn Ash Society Ltd, becoming the latest Community Pub.
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From the
https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Eleanor Perkins, 9 May 2019.
Lotto grant will pay for disabled toilet at Chequer Inn pub in Ash.
A community which clubbed together to buy back their local pub is
celebrating a new £10,000 grant.
The Chequer Inn in Ash has been awarded the five-figure sum by The
National Lottery Community Fund and the cash will help pay for
disability-friendly unisex toilets.
The Grade II listed building was saved from development into houses last
April after members of the Chequer Inn Ash Society bought the pub by
raising £400,000 from villagers, shareholders and investors.
David Greaves, Jon Scatchard, Matthew Titterton, Jane Greaves and Sandra
Scatchard with the Lotto cheque.
Its chairman Jon Scatchard said: “This project has re-energised social
relationships and brought people together to save this prominent central
facility, which had been lost for several years.
"The space now needs improvement to enable access to the pub from across
the community.”
Some areas, like the garden, are currently accessible by people with
mobility problems but improvements are still needed.
He added: “We are determined to provide a welcoming, inclusive approach
to the building, inside and out to enable access by the whole community
to the range of activities planned.
"The success of the project depends on community inclusion.”
The existing male and female toilets do not achieve satisfactory spaces
for wheelchair access.
The location of the proposed new WC is beneath the existing shallow roof
of the modern walkway.
Secretary Jane Greaves said: “Disabled access and facilities have been
considered as a priority for our refurbishment, to give a clear message
to the community - that we take their needs seriously and we wish to
make the pub facilities accessible to all.”
The pub is hoping to relaunch in the summer.
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May open in summer as an interim micro (whilst essential works are
carried out) then formally re-open in the autumn.
Finally opened again on the 10 June 2019 although the official opening
wasn't till 1 July 2019.
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From the
https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Gerry Warren, 5 July 2019.
Villagers are now back at the bar after raising £400k to save The Chequer Inn at Ash.
Villagers are celebrating the re-opening of a historic pub which
they stepped in to buy when plans were lodged to turn it into a house.
It is the culmination of a determined and passionate campaign to
preserve The Chequer Inn at Ash - after more than 300 residents
bought shares to help raise £400,000.
And on Monday, new hosts Craig and Jan Payten opened the
newly-refurbished pub’s doors for business for the first time in
almost five years.
Craig and Jan Payten who are the new hosts of the re-opened Chequer Inn at Ash.
But it has taken a huge effort by villagers to secure its future
against the odds.
The planning application to turn the empty building into a house
sparked outcry and a campaign in the village backed by local
celebrity, actor Neil Stuke.
It led to the creation of The Chequer Inn Ash Society early in 2017
as a formal community benefit society to secure its future.
The group has now given a lease to the new hosts and members are
confident they will have the experience and drive to make it a
success.
Both have considerable knowledge of the trade.
Liverpudlian Jan, 54, previously ran the "Duke William" in Ickham and
was a key member of the front of house team at the "Red Lion" at Hernhill.
Craig, 48, who is South African, is an experienced senior operator
at both family-orientated and high-end restaurants and pub outlets.
Jan said: “When we first walked through the door, it was a bit of a
wreck to be honest because the place had been left to rack and ruin.
"But it is such a gorgeous building that we both fell in love with
it and knew what potential it had.
“We were also very impressed by the incredible passion and effort of
the local community and the Chequer Inn Society to re-open this pub
and it feels special to be part of that.”
The 14th century building has undergone significant renovation and
refurbishment.
Craig is already developing a menu and pledges the quality of food
and service will rival the best in east Kent.
The couple’s three daughters and son are also involved, while the
business is also creating several more new jobs.
“We are confident the village will support the pub because so many
residents have bought shares in the business and now have a vested
interest in it,” added Craig.
The Chequer Inn closed in 2014 - 340 years after it first opened as
a pub - and a planning application was lodged to convert the 17th
century property into a house.
But campaigners fought to have the pub registered as an asset of
community value.
Dover District Council and the building owner eventually abandoned
the change of use plan and put it up for sale for £340,000.
By August 2017, a total of £400,000 had been raised from investors
and through grants and loans to buy the property and pay for
renovations.
In February 2018, a price was agreed with the owner of the building
and in April the sale was completed to the Chequer Inn Ash Society.
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Above photo showing the Bat and Trap pitch 2019, kindly taken and
sent by Tony Wells. |
Above photo, kindly taken by Rory Kehoe, May 2018. |
Above photo, June 2019, kindly taken and sent by Tony Wells. |
Above photo, June 2019, kindly taken and sent by Tony Wells. |
Above photo showing the restaurant, June 2019, kindly taken and sent
by Tony Wells. |
Above photo showing the bar, June 2019, kindly taken and sent by
Tony Wells. |
Above photo showing the bar, June 2019, kindly taken and sent by
Tony Wells. |
Above photo showing the bar, June 2019, kindly taken and sent by
Tony Wells. |
Above photo, July 2019, kindly taken and sent by Sue Carey. |
Above photo, July 2019, kindly taken and sent by Sue Carey. |
Their Facebook page stated that on 26 January 2022 the pub had closed due
to a number of staff being ill, but hoped to be open again shortly. However,
further information received suggests that the premises owners are looking
for a new tenant or lease holder.
|
From the
https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Gerry Warren, 14 May 2022.
Chequer Inn at Ash remains closed amid fears it may never reopen.
The future of a historic village pub saved from redevelopment
through a community buy-out now hangs in the balance after the
business failed.
The Chequer Inn at Ash was bought with the help of almost 300
shareholders after residents successfully fought a planning
application to convert the 15th century building into a house.
There was a huge celebration when the Chequer Inn was saved from
redevelopment.
The pub had closed in 2014 - 340 years after it first opened - but
campaigners managed to have it registered as an 'asset of community
value'.
A Save the Chequer Inn campaign was launched and almost £400,000
raised by the community, and through grants and loans to buy and
refurbish the pub.
But a year after reopening it to a fanfare with new tenants in 2019,
the pandemic hit, lockdown was imposed and the business suffered.
It did reopen once more but the subsequent Omicron variant caused
numerous bookings to be cancelled, from which the business never
recovered and the pub closed in January.
Now, trustees from the Chequer Inn Society are anxiously looking for
new tenants but admit it is a "race against time" and the pub might
have to be sold.
Chairman David Greaves says the trust cannot sustain the pub being
closed for much longer.
"Unfortunately, the business could not survive the last Omicron
variant, which hit trade hard with cancelled bookings just before
Christmas, so it was knock-back after knock-back."
Supporters who invested in the pub paid £100 a share, and some
bought thousands of pounds' worth.
"When we set out, we couldn't give any guarantees that their money
would ever bear fruit in terms of dividends," said Mr Greaves.
"Now we haven't had rent for a number of months and are running on a
bit of a shoestring.
"The bottom line is that we have to open sooner rather than later as
we do have ongoing costs.
"We can't just stay closed indefinitely - there is a timeframe to
this.
"I can't deny that it's more than a possibility we could have to put
the pub up for sale."
But Mr Greaves is still hopeful they will find new tenants and says
there has been some interest.
"I think the community would still support it and make it a viable
business, despite it being a difficult industry," he says.
"We did have some good things going in the pub, and could do even
more with a bit of investment in the garden, which many pubs have."
Anyone interested in taking on the tenancy should email
chequermates@gmail.com.
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From the
https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Lotte Brundle, 28 September 2022.
Tenant found for Chequer Inn pub in Ash.
A historic village pub saved from redevelopment through a community
buy-out could now reopen within weeks.
The Chequer Inn Ash Society have announced via the local branch of
the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) that a 10-year lease with a new
tenant has been secured.
News of the breakthrough was announced on Facebook this week.
The new landlord is set to be Nick Turner Brown, who lives locally
and also holds the tenancy of pubs the "Fitzwalter Arms" in Goodnestone and
the "Griffin's Head" in Chillenden.
In a statement on the Deal, Dover, Sandwich & District Camra
Facebook page, the "Chequer Inn" Ash Society said: "We are feeling
very positive about the future and achieving a sound working
relationship with Nick and his team.
"Nick has a strong 'community' ethos to his business model, and we
are delighted that he is keen to keep hosting 'Meet Up Mondays'.
"We are confident he will be responsive to other community
initiatives."
The Chequer Inn has something of a chequered history.
It was bought with the help of almost 300 shareholders after
residents successfully fought a planning application to convert the
15th century building into a house.
The pub had closed in 2014 - 340 years after it first opened - but
campaigners managed to have it registered as an ‘asset of community
value’.
A Save the Chequer Inn campaign was launched and almost £400,000
raised by the community, and through grants and loans to buy and
refurbish the pub.
But a year after reopening with new tenants in 2019, the pandemic
hit, lockdown was imposed and the business suffered.
It did reopen once more but the subsequent Omicron variant caused
numerous bookings to be cancelled, from which business never
recovered and it closed again in January.
Mathematics student Ella Beggs, 22, has lived in Ash with her family
for eight years and frequently visited the pub.
She said: "It will be nice to have two pubs open in the village
again.
"Even though summer's coming to the end I'm looking forward to
making use of the fantastic pub garden with friends and family
before winter sets in." |
Closed in January of 2022 I believe this opened again in January 2023.
LICENSEE LIST
ROBERTS Thomas 1674
HOLLINGSBURY Richard & Elizabeth 1708
BRASHER Thomas 1721 (probably the same as Brazier)
CORK John (Chequer new license)
BRAZIER Thomas 1740-56
BRAZIER Jane 1781
HUGHES Edward & Jane 1784
REED Edward 1785
BELWAY Isaak 1802
BALSDORK William 1807
MARSH Thomas 1818
MARSH Henry 1832-51+ (age 70 in 1851 )
    
GOLDUP Edward 1858+ 
 (Also
coal dealer)
CLAYSON Charles 1869-82 (also farmer age 40 in 1881)
 
CLAYSON Alfred 1882
HOBDAY Valentine 1888+
CHAMP Henry 1889
STRINGER Alfred Noah 1894-1903+
 (also
carrier age 35 in 1901) 
BOXALL Johnathan 1903-Mar/11
HOPTON Frederick John Mar/1911-14+
 
(From Hackney)
AMOS Llewellyn S H 1916-Feb/24
BECKETT Edward Albert Feb/1925-June/27
WRIGHT/LIGHT George William June/1927+
SHERRIN Harold James 1930-May/31
WILSON John George May/1931-Aug/42
 
COOK George W E Aug/1942-Apr/48
(Bombed out
Canterbury licensee)
TWIDDY Stanley A Apr/1948+
WAYMAN William Ray 1973-86
Fremlins
CODING Paul 1996
HEATH David & Beverley 1998
GEE Stephen & Maureen Ann 2000-02+
???? Tina & Mark 2002+
WYRILL Mark & Sue 2005
???? Dolly & Bruce 2007
SAUNDERS-FINCH Dean July-Oct/2008
MUNDEN Richard Nov 2008-Nov/11
???? Richard? Under temporary management Nov/2011-8?Feb/12
HATZIPOLAKIS Minos 8/Feb/2012-Aug/12
ANTONY Stuart Aug/2012+
PAYTEN Craig & Janet June/2019+
BROWN Nick Turner 2022+
https://pubwiki.co.uk/Chequers.shtml
http://www.closedpubs.co.uk/chequer.html
From the Pigot's Directory 1828-29
From the Pigot's Directory 1832-33-34
From the Pigot's Directory 1839
From the Pigot's Directory 1840
From Wingham Division Ale Licences 1740 Ref: KAO - QRLV 3/1
From Bagshaw Directory 1847
From Melville's Directory 1858
From the Post Office Directory 1874
From the Post Office Directory 1882
From the Kelly's Directory 1899
From the Kelly's Directory 1903
From the Post Office Directory 1913
From the Post Office Directory 1914
From the Post Office Directory 1922
From the Post Office Directory 1930
From the Kelly's Directory 1934
From the Post Office Directory 1938
Library archives 1974
From the Dover Express
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