FREIGHT train driver, Julian Ashford, had always dreamt of running a pub. And now his dream has come true as he supports his wife, Susan, who has taken over the helm at The Railway Inn in Westbury.
Susan, who is also having a career change, moving from the care industry to looking after her new customers, will be in charge of The Railway Inn with support from Julian as he continues with his day job.
The pub on Station Road has reopened following a ‘first class’, £180,000 refurbishment by national pub operator, Punch.
Commenting on their new venture, Susan said, “Julian and I have always had a secret desire to run our very own pub. It’s a bit of a coincidence that we’ve ended up at The Railway Inn! Julian can now combine his love of pulling trains with pulling pints and I can get stuck into running the pub.
“We want The Railway Inn to become a true community pub with something for all the family. Our location is perfect for attracting commuters and visitors travelling from the nearby railway station too and we hope that they will make the pub a regular station stop!”
Following the investment by Punch, The Railway Inn has been transformed into a warm and welcoming community pub. Everything has been repaired, replaced or refurbished and full redecoration has brightened up the pub. There are now clearly defined areas for drinking, dining and entertainment. The ladies’ and gents’ facilities have been refreshed and the kitchen updated. Outside, the beer garden has been given a mini-makeover and new signage and lighting have improved the pub’s kerb-appeal.
Customers at The Railway Inn can now enjoy a great new menu offering traditional pub classics complemented by a wide range of beers, wines and spirits including cask and craft ales.
As well as pool and darts, Susan and Julian plan to build on their entertainment programme starting off with a monthly quiz and acoustic music on Sundays. They are also delighted that six local skittles teams will be returning to The Railway Inn too.
Commenting on the investment, Amie Bullock, openings manager for Punch said, “The refurbishment demonstrates our commitment to improving our community pub estate. I’m confident that it will now be ‘full steam ahead’ for the team at The Railway Inn; it’s great to see the pub restored to its former glory and I’m sure that Julian and Susan will keep things on the right track for the next leg of their journey.”
