Francisco Cardona

The Waggon and Horses, Doulting Beacon, Shepton Mallet, Somerset With a population of just 570 people, Francisco Cardona had to do something special to build a prosperous future for the Waggon and Horses. Located in the scenic Mendip Hills above Shepton Mallet, Cardona decided the pub could become a magnet for music lovers from around the UK. The pub's original skittle alley has been turned into a concert room and art gallery, which provides an outlet for local artists as well as entertainment for villagers and others. The pub is a mile-and-a-half from the nearest village, so it has needed Francisco's personal drive to create a welcoming venue for the locals as well as a destination for tourists. Cardona has improved the food offer by putting an emphasis on local produce. Francisco secured £5,000 in grant aid from South West Arts and the National Lottery towards a series of concerts, enabling him to purchase seats for the concert room. He has received a couple of "kick start" grants from his district council, and there has been some sponsorship money from local businesses. A spokesman for Pub is the Hub said: "The diverse nature of the events which take place at the Waggon and Horses has built up a strong reputation which has spread widely.