Cricketers up for Great British Pub Award (From Kingston Guardian)

Chessington pub nominated for Great British Pub Awards

2:50pm Tuesday 26th June 2012 in Drink By Nazia Dewji, Reporter

A Chessington pub has been nominated in the best newcomer category for the Great British Pub Awards 2012.

The Cricketers, in Clayton Road, was taken over by a new landlord last year after being left in a run-down condition for years.

New landlord Tony Howe, 46, and his two sons, who live above the pub, have managed to turn the fortunes of the pub around in less than 12 months.

Mr Howe said: "When we took over the pub it was run-down and had a terrible reputation. We have worked very hard to change this and the pub is now more of a family pub.

"It is great to be nominated for an award. We will see how it goes."

Since the takeover the pub has had a major revamp with the building of a brand new bar inside and the landscaping of a garden outside.

Sales at The Cricketers have also quadrupled in the past year and the recent Euro 2012 matches have added to the ongoing buzz surrounding the pub.

Mr Howe said: "The atmosphere here is amazing during the football – especially when the England games are on. We have put four big screens up and everyone is in a good mood."

The results of the Great British Pub Awards will be announced on September, 13 2012 at a special ceremony at Hilton hotel in Park Lane.