T4K3.news

Local pub transformed by former barred landlord

Andy Evans turned The Cricketers Arms from a run-down venue to a thriving community hub.

July 27, 2025 at 09:48 AM

Pub landlord was barred from his own venue before he bought it

Andy and Denise transformed The Cricketers Arms into a beloved local hub against the odds.

Pub landlord turned failure into thriving community success

Andy Evans, 52, once barred from The Cricketers Arms in St Helens, now proudly runs the historic pub with his wife Denise. After a career shift from postman, the couple purchased the venue 13 years ago when it was nearly boarded up. Today, their efforts have revitalized the pub into a bustling community hub, attracting diverse clientele. With a deep commitment to quality, they brew their own beer and serve fresh food daily. Despite ongoing challenges such as rising living costs, Andy emphasizes innovation and community support, exemplified by their charity fundraising initiatives. The Cricketers Arms has received accolades, including the title of Pub of the Year 2025 by CAMRA, highlighting its role in the local beer culture.

Key Takeaways

✔️

Andy and Denise transformed a failing pub into a community hub.

✔️

The couple's innovative spirit has led to brewing their own beer.

✔️

The Cricketers Arms attracts diverse customers throughout the week.

✔️

Andy Evans faced challenges while redefining local participation in pubs.

✔️

The venue has won multiple awards, including Pub of the Year 2025.

✔️

Fundraising events highlight the pub's commitment to local charities.

"It has been a gigantic and steep learning curve over the last 13 years."

This reflects Andy's journey and the challenges faced in the pub industry.

"We get asked a lot 'what's it like running a pub' but the last 13 years has taught me to expect the unexpected."

Andy emphasizes the unpredictability of the pub business.

"We aren't the easiest pub to get to from the town centre but we have a lot of regulars now."

Andy shares how their hard work has built a loyal customer base.

"Every penny raised at our events goes directly to local charities."

This highlights their commitment to community support through charity work.

Andy and Denise Evans represent a refreshing narrative of resilience in the hospitality industry. Their story is not just about personal redemption but also a testament to the power of community engagement. By turning a personal setback into a thriving venture, they have created a destination that not only serves drinks but fosters a sense of belonging. Their commitment to local charities through events like the Drink to Feed festival shows that mutual support can flourish even in challenging economic times. This strategic blend of community focus and personal dedication sets them apart in the competitive pub landscape.

Highlights

From barred to beloved, Andy transformed his pub journey
A community hub thrives on beer brewed with love
Challenges fuel innovation in the hospitality industry
Local pubs can be beacons of community resilience

Economic pressures on local pubs raise concerns

As costs for energy and living continue to rise, pubs like The Cricketers Arms face increasing challenges. This economic strain may lead to fewer local establishments thriving in the future.

As local pubs face mounting pressures, innovative approaches like those of the Evans couple may chart the path forward.

🏷️

pubs community realale hospitality charity business community hospitality

Enjoyed this? Let your friends know!