Anchor Hotel, Great Wakering

An imposingly large public house, built just before WWI, situated at the eastern end of the mile-long village High Street. It used to be the social hub of the village, thriving and popular.

The pub is in desperate need of an experienced Licensee, having in recent years been run by a succession of "first-timers", more intent on teenage mums' Karaoke, fruit-machines and aggressive Chavs than a warm, convivial, family atmosphere. Formerly renowned for the quality and range of its cask-conditioned ales, it can barely serve up a decent pint of IPA. The bright orange decor doesn't help. Even the Pool team have gone elsewhere.

It cries out for refurbishment, renewal and a change of customer base; it's a big pub and a makeover will cost a lot, probably affordable only by a national chain. Without this, the pub is rudderless and adrift.

24 Dec 2004 10:27