A Wiltshire pub has reopened under new landlords hoping to revitalise the venue in tribute to a former regular.
Louise and Martin Trusler recently took over The Raven Inn at Poulshot, near Devizes, and reopened the pub’s doors for the first time on Saturday, May 18.
The venue had briefly been closed in preparation for the takeover following the departure of the previous landlords earlier this month.
Louise, who has been in the catering and hospitality industry since she was 14, says the couple quickly decided to take on The Raven after being approached by Wadworth.
READ MORE: The Raven Inn near Devizes to reopen under new landlords
She added: “They approached me because they follow my catering page and it just happened so quickly.
“Martin has gone from sitting at a desk to working a silly amount of hours behind the bar but he’s loved it. Between us we’ve got a huge amount of support.”
The Raven holds a special place in Trusler’s heart as it is the pub her father John Coleman used to drink in before he died in 2022.
“It’s quite poignant for me being here. He was well-known in the farming community and it’s nice we’ve got this pub because he loved coming here.
“It’s part of my dad for me, he was my world and he would be absolutely thrilled we took on this pub, he would be very proud.”
A family photo has been installed above the fireplace so a part of Mr Coleman will always be there.
The Truslers kicked off their time at the pub with an opening night which was well attended by villagers and those from further afield, including Cllr Jennie Britten the new deputy mayor of Devizes.
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“We were very busy and have been well supported by the village and our friends and family”, said Louise.
She continued: “Our opening night was really well supported which was lovely and it’s been busy since with lots of people loving our roasts and burgers.”
A “brand new menu” has been launched which will serve a wide range of locally sourced food.
Louise added: “Because we make everything ourselves we can control all the ingredients and cater for any allergy.
“It’s virtually all homemade and locally sourced so I like to think we can cater to all tastes and allergies.
“We want everyone to feel they can come and use this place as a hub for the community, we want to make it come alive and make sure it’s welcoming.”
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