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Couple Start New Venture In Wootton Pub After Lockdown

Tia Nicholson & Ashley Cherrett – licensees at The Cedars

A new couple has moved into their first pub - The Cedars - in Wootton and the pair are hoping to bring their passion and knowledge of all things beer-related to their new business.

New tenants Ashley Cherrett and Tia Nicholson met whilst working at Fuller’s brewery in Chiswick and are looking forward to their new venture on the Isle of Wight.

They got the keys on 24 February 2020, before closing for lockdown without completing their first month. Tia and Ashley used the time wisely though – and have reopened with the pub in tip-top condition and with plans in place to grow the business in the future.

Ashley, who grew up on the Isle of Wight, was previously the Trade Quality Team Leader at Fuller’s Brewery. His passion for beer quality is legendary and he is also a qualified beer sommelier. Tia also used to work at Fuller’s running the online shop and working as a tour guide. She was responsible for the brewery’s famous Hock Cellar bar and was awarded Master Cellarman status for her high standards and outstanding beer quality.

The couple is also aiming to raise the quality and profile of The Cedars’ menu – broadening the pub’s appeal and growing a reputation for excellent food. They will be focusing on keeping the food miles low with dishes such as locally sourced island beef with Isle of Wight blue cheese sauce.

Ashley said:

“Tia and I are just so excited to finally be getting underway. We have a great local trade and we are also ready to make the most of the high number of staycationers coming across The Solent. We’ve got an excellent team and I know we can deliver a fantastic pub experience.

“At the heart of The Cedars will be the best beer on the Isle of Wight, supported by delicious, fresh-cooked food. In addition, we will be looking to rotate our cask ale range to make sure we always have something interesting for our regulars, while keeping reliable old favourites on the bar too.”

Tia added:

“I’ve worked in a number of pubs before – but it’s the first time I’ve been at the helm. We will be launching a number of events such as gin afternoons, cocktail nights and acoustic music to attract new customers to the pub. I’m also really keen to build our reputation for excellent food – I think that will be one of the key elements for our long-term success.

“The Cedars is a fantastic pub with a large garden, which is perfect for those who want to socially distance, and we can’t wait to welcome locals and tourists alike. Bring the family, bring the dog, bring your grandparents – I promise you all that Ashley and I will give you the warmest of welcomes, a fantastic pint of beer and a great plate of tasty food too.”

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