Stein helps launch fourth Pub is the Hub community scheme

The initiative works with local authorities to identify their priorities for local services and urges them to support pubs in providing those services.

The launch event will be held at a pub owned by celebrity chef Rick Stein and his ex-wife Jill — the Cornish Arms in St Merryn near Padstow — on 17 January.

There will be advice and support for pub operators and owners who are considering a diversification scheme. This follows previous launch events, supported by the Big Lottery Fund, in Suffolk, Essex and North Yorkshire that resulted in dozens of new projects getting underway.

John Longden, chief executive of Pub is the Hub, said: “We’d love to see any licensees in Cornwall who are considering the option of diversification — and even those who have never thought of it before.

“At the meeting we will offer ideas and access to support and advice.
“We are very grateful to Jill and Rick and their team at the Cornish Arms for kindly hosting our event and to Adam Luck and his team at St Austell Brewery for their continuing support.”

Jill Stein said: “Since we took over the Cornish Arms in 2009, it’s been so important to us to get involved with our community by supporting local live music, events and fundraising for people in the surrounding area. Local pubs are at the heart of our local communities. It’s great to be a part of that.”