Storrington landlord ‘anxious but very excited’ ahead of reopening

Scott Watkins who manages the Crown in Cootham with his wife and landlady Natalie, said he is excited ahead of reopening on Tuesday, but also anxious that it goes well.

Scott, 49, said: “[We’re] slightly anxious - along with a lot of pubs out there at the moment.

“We have all been through the mill. Anxious but very, very excited.”

The couple took the pub over in January 2020, just two months before the country was plunged into lockdown. And after three government enforced closures due to coronavirus restrictions he said he wants to reopen in a safe way.

Scott added: “It’s an important step in returning back to work. There’s a certain level of anxiety. It’s important we get it right and we remain safe - at the same time make money.”

The pub, which has recently unveiled its revamped beer garden, has enjoyed success through diversifying, including a Mexican menu and takeaway food, according to Scott.

He said: “People are desperate to get back to the pub.

“They’re excited. It’s us that have got the anxiety. Excited and anxious at the same time.

“The end is in sight.”