A COUPLE have spent the past 14 years building a pub up to become a stable of the Ulverston community.

The Stan Laurel Inn, located on The Ellers in Ulverston, has been owned and operated by Paul and Trudy Dewar, who purchased it after working for another pub in Kendal.

Originally named the Britannia, the Inn is named after comedy iconic Stan Laurel, known for his double act with Oliver Hardy.

Despite recent difficulties caused by lockdown, Paul and Trudy have continued to grow their business and reflect fondly on the last 14 years they have ran the pub.

 

OWNER: Paul Dewar and his wife Trudy have ran the pub for 14 years

OWNER: Paul Dewar and his wife Trudy have ran the pub for 14 years

 

Paul said: "It's a great place to run, and it's even better knowing Stan Laurel as literally born right round the corner from us.

"We previously worked in Kendal at the Kings Arms before it changed its name, and that was a big part of the community when we worked there.

"At the time we worked for a company so when we moved here, we took on the pub ourselves.

"We wanted to make a go of it ourselves and make the business grow.

"Being responsible for a business yourself is a little different but over time we learned a lot and took to it.

"The most difficult part was certainly the last 18 months.

"We were close to going under a few times but in the end, we managed to keep our heads above water.

"It's been hard for everyone and in many ways it still is.

"I don't think a lot of people realise how difficult it has been for the hospitality industry.

"There have been a lot of struggles.

"It's not a pleasant thing to do when you're paying bills but looking over your shoulder at the same time to ensure you have enough money coming in.

 

HATS OFF: Paul and Trudy pictured in 2009 during the unveiling of a statue for comedy legend Stan Laurel

HATS OFF: Paul and Trudy pictured in 2009 during the unveiling of a statue for comedy legend Stan Laurel

 

"The lockdown saw us throw away so much food and beer with no income coming in the replace it, and we are still needing to pay bills like before.

"It's like a juggling act but hopefully it will be getting better soon.

"Over the last 14 years we've had a nice steady stream of growth, particularly over the first six or seven years.

"After that it steadies out and then you learn what you can and can't do with the space you have.

"You know you'll be busy on certain days and at certain times of the year so you can prepare for those.

"We always do homemade food which I think is importance. Everything from our curries, our chips and breakfasts are all homemade which we pride ourselves on."