Admiral pumps £350k into two pub refurbs

The King’s Way in Stoke-on-Trent has received a £135,000 makeover while the Pool Dole, also in Stoke, received a £212,000 renovation.

Investing into its estate through capital expenditure is a core part of Admiral’s strategy. It is also always on the lookout for further ways to support its licensees.

An example of this was last year, the company invested £1m into energy-saving initiatives across about a quarter (450) of its estate in a bid to help combat rising energy costs.

Admiral business development manager Jodie Leigh said: “I am thrilled with the investment projects that have taken place in Stoke-on-Trent – the results look amazing and will ensure both pubs sit at the heart of the community.

“We are continually investing into our pubs across the UK and strongly believe in the importance of offering local communities the resources they need to bring people together.

“Pete, Hayley, Victoria and Lee are all dedicated licensees who are passionate about their pubs and will be a great asset in their local community. We wish them every success in the future.”

New look

The Pool Dole on Fenpark Road reopened earlier this month (Friday 7 April) and now has refreshed flooring and seating alongside a new sports bar with a pool table, Sky and BT Sports.

Its dining room has been transformed and the pub hosts bottomless brunches and cocktail nights on Fridays and Saturdays with roasts on a Sunday.

The pub also hosts rolling events such as themed food evenings during the first week, regular pizza and pint nights alongside a weekly pub quiz, karaoke and open mic nights.

Run by Victoria and Lee Mavin, the duo will also be hosting an over 60s lunch club bingo charity event and frequent coffee mornings for new mums and the elderly.

Victoria Mavin said: “We are so thrilled to have opened the pub to the community and showcase this transformation.

“We are extremely excited to become a part of this neighbourhood and reveal all the exciting new initiative offerings.

“Our goal is to make sure the Pool Dole has something for everyone to ensure we become a pillar of the community. We want to thank Admiral for helping us get the pub where we want it to be.”

Regular events

The King’s Way on Kingsway Road reopened its doors on Friday 24 February with a weekend of full entertainment.

It hosts live music every other Saturday followed by the Orange Bicycle Club – the longest running disco night in Stoke.

Licensees Hayley and Pete Gidman host Rock and Roll Bingo once a month to raise money for a defibrillator at the pub.

Hayley said she was delighted with the pub’s new look and had received “incredible” feedback on the makeover.

She added: “Being in the hospitality industry has always been our passion and we are happy we have achieved our vision.

“We cannot wait for what is to come, to hold many more enjoyable evenings and charity days for our local community.”