Existing staff members at the site, which will be run by experienced operators Ravi Keshri and James Eyre, have been retained and will continue business as normal.
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The acquisition comes just over a year after the pair took on the previously closed pub and completed an extensive turnaround project, transforming the site into a successful gastropub and community hub.
As operators of another local pub in North Curry – and hearing first-hand how much the closure had affected residents – they were inspired to act. Determined to restore it, they secured the site in January 2025 and oversaw its revival, initially operating from a trailer in the pub car park while refurbishment works were completed.
Strong food bias
Since reopening, the Bird in Hand has developed a strong food-led reputation, led by head chef Dino Lannone, serving locally sourced produce while building a loyal customer base through community engagement and local partnerships.
St Austell Brewery operations director Gareth James said: “As we continue to pursue the right acquisition opportunities, the Bird in Hand is a great strategic fit, and exactly the type of quality pub we look for within our 120-plus strong leased and tenanted estate. It’s a thriving community local in an area of Somerset where we see real opportunity to strengthen our presence.
“Ravi and James are exceptional operators. Their passion for pubs, the local community, and delivering great beer and food aligns perfectly with our values.”
Outstanding reputation
Eyre added: “One of the biggest attractions for us was the opportunity to partner with a company that genuinely understands and supports great pubs.
“St Austell Brewery has an outstanding reputation, a fantastic beer portfolio and a model that allows operators like us to continue doing what we do best while benefiting from the strength of an established South West company.”
The acquisition of the Bird In Hand follows significant and important investment projects into several of St Austell Brewery’s leased & tenanted sites this year, including the Rising Sun in Pensford, the Crown Inn in Lynton and the Copley Arms in Hessenford.
