Horsham pub wins support from locals after announcing: 'We're here to stay'

Phil and Kathryn Farrelly took over the helm of the Dog and Bacon in North Parade in November but have now signed up with Red Oak Taverns to run the pub for the next five years.

“We are very excited for what the future may bring in the pub that we love,” said Kathryn. “We would like to say a massive thank you to all our family and friends that have supported us every step of the way – even when they thought we were a bit mad.

“And of course we could not do this without the support of all our customers, who are quickly becoming friends.”

And the couple added: “It goes without saying, we could not do this without our amazing team that work with us. They are all incredible.”

Phil said customers had also been great. “They gave us a big round of applause when we announced we were staying.”

Both Phil and Kathryn have a wealth of experience in the hospitality business. Phil ran Broadbridge Heath Village Centre for 32 years and Kathryn was bar and functions manager at Rookwood Golf Course for around 11 years.

Now they have been busy sprucing up the Dog and Bacon, including its large garden, to the delight of locals who are welcoming the improvements.

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The pub now offers lunches from Tuesday to Friday and has regular Friday ‘food truck’ events – with everything from pizza and burger vans to Asian foods and more. There are also regular quiz and music nights.