How an Ashurst village pub is helping to bring back a ‘bit of normality’

The 16th century Fountain Inn at Ashurst - once the favourite haunt of legendary actor and local resident Laurence Olivier - hopes its new ‘room’ will help customers feel more secure when venturing out for a meal.

The pub reopened its doors in July after the easing of lockdown and since then, said landlady Lindsay Fergusson, “we have steadily built up a reputation for the highest safety measures,

“We have decided that this pandemic will NOT hold us back so we have built a covered indoor/outdoor structure with full circulation, heat lamps and pretty decor to accommodate the vulnerable and those respectfully cautious.”

Added Lindsay: “Instead of panicking it’s important to evolve and be proactive. This pub was built in 1581 and has survived worse than corona.”

Lindsay, who helps run the pub with partner Alex Tipping, said they had not wanted to spoil the ‘cosy atmospher of the pub’s interior.

“We have listened to what our customers want - some have been sitting outside and shivering - so we decided to invest in the new structure.

“We just want people to know there is somewhere they can go and have a little bit of normality in their life.”

The couple - who have called the new room ‘Covered 19 lounge’ - were firm supporters of the NHS during lockdown. They arranged for The Fountain to be lit up with the NHS logo during the weekly ‘clap for carers’ in support of health workers.