Operator of the Pheasant on Waterside in Chesham, Jane Clarke, was presented with Star Pubs’ Dedication Award to mark 30 years at the helm of the market town pub.
Clarke took on the Pheasant in 1996 and while it was in need of some TLC, she recalled feeling instantly at home at the pub.
“I’d been looking for a pub in the area for some time. Though The Pheasant was in a sorry state I thought straightway ‘wow, this is it’. It just felt right and like a comfortable pair of slippers”, she said.
As well as redecorating, adding pool and darts and overhauling the carpark, Clarke also developed a waterside garden on the banks of the River Chess, which runs behind the pub, complete with a children’s play area and covered patio.
Traditional feel
The pub, which dates back to the 1800s, also boasts a big screen TV showing terrestrial sports and important national events, while a juke box provides a wide variety of music with impromptu singalong sessions often hosted on Friday nights.
However, the licensee has kept the same traditional feel she fell in love with at the Pheasant in 1996, including its low wood ceilings, two old fireplaces and a cosy snug.
Sitting at the heart of the local community, the wet-led pub welcomes people of all ages, with multiple generations of some families among its loyal followers, as well as regulars who have been coming in since Jane took the reins.
Clarke and her team know most customers by name and just how they like their favourite tipple served, right down to the number of ice cubes and the type of glass.
She added: “I never thought I’d be here this long. I’ve loved every minute and have no plans to ‘call time’. It’s all down to my fantastic regulars.
Tremendous achievement
“I see myself as a custodian of the Pheasant – the customers make a pub and they’re a brilliant bunch. “There’s lots of laughter every day, it’s tremendously uplifting.
“People share in each other’s celebrations and happiness and support each other through the tragedies and hard times, too. This award is just as much for my customers and staff; I couldn’t have done it without them.”
During her tenure, the Pheasant has also raised thousands of pounds for charity, funding a neighbourhood defibrillator positioned at the front of the pub. It also provides space for local causes and organisations to hold their meetings.
Star Pubs & Bars area manager Max Allen presented the award, describing it as a “great honour”.
He continued: “Thanks to Jane’s stewardship and commitment, the Pheasant has stood the test of time and is a much-loved focal point of Waterside life. It’s a tremendous achievement to keep a pub thriving for 30 years, and it speaks volumes about the customer service.”
