'Lifelong dream'- new owners take over popular pub in East Sussex
The Wheatsheaf Inn, Willingdon has changed owners and will soon be open again with a new look.
Magnus Rogers, 39, said it was his ‘lifelong dream’ to own a pub, and his dreams came true when him and his business partner Graham Owen took ownership of the Wheatsheaf Inn.
Both owners grew up in Old Town and Magnus actually worked in the pub 16 years ago. He said: “I achieved my lifelong dream and bought a pub with my business partner, Graham Owen.
“I fell in love with the industry when I started washing up in my local pub at the age of 14, and spent the next 14 years managing pubs and working as a chef. Owning a pub it the only job I have ever wanted and I have always been on a look out for one on sale.”
The pub was previously owned by Karen Clapton but she put it up for sale in 2024 but had her final day this year October, 19.
Magnus described they will be introducing a ‘whole new menu’, which will have a local focus so ingredients will be sourced locally and seasonally.
He added: “The menu will depend on what’s available for each season, which fish has been caught that morning, what vegetables are available right now.
"It’s a great feeling but also a bit overwhelming. We are both very excited.
"Massive thanks to Karen for all the hard work and love that she has put in over the last nine years and for handing over a thriving business that we are hugely excited to put our mark on.
“We will be closed over the next few days while we get ourselves settled, but would love to welcome you all from 3pm on Friday 23rd October. There will be live music from Jason McNiff from 8.30pm and some complimentary food (we will not be serving meals).
“We will be open as usual and our new chefs Mark and Matt will be launching the menu from Saturday 24th October.”
The pub opening hours moving forward will be Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm. Sunday 12pm to 10.30pm.