The Jolly Fenman, Blackfen

The Jolly Fenman is our 'local' pub and we've been there a few times. The younger bar staff are friendly and chatty and there is usually a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. However, the older gentleman who works behind the bar, and I am assuming is the manager, is the rudest man I have ever met. He does not smile, basic pleasantries are not in his voacabulary, and his general manner is obnoxious. Having worked in hospitality myself in the past, I am aware of how important good customer service is. Especially since the pub put their prices up, I feel that our custom should be treated with at least a grateful smile! Myself and my partner are 21 and the pub recently put a 21 and over drinking policy in place. However, the manager is erratic with ID checking - he has been heard to ask people simply if they are over 21, and on other occassions, just refuse to serve someone because he seems not to like the look of them. The manager of the Jolly Fenman needs to realise that the success of his pub relies on the customers, and the only way anyone will return is if their custom is respected, not snarled at. My experience at the Fenman this evening has ruined what should have been a relaxing Friday evening with a few drinks.

25 Feb 2012 10:42