Popular East Sussex pub has new landlords

Gary Browne and his son Will have taken over the lease of The Royal Oak and marked their arrival with a relaunch event just before Christmas.

The Royal Oak was formerly run under the auspices Revived Inns by Tom Stovold. In a fond message to his loyal customers, Mr Stovold wrote: "A heartfelt thank you for your support, loyalty and custom. And thank you for choosing the Royal Oak and for making it what it is. We are so lucky to have such a great village community.

"It's no surprise to you that all pubs are suffering because of big tax bills, big employment costs and buildings that need so much work and repairs. I did vow never to close the Royal Oak and swore I'd be in place until a new tenant was found."

He praised the new landlords saying: "How lucky did we get when young Will walked into our lives? I want to wish him all the luck in the world. I will certainly be a customer."

The two Mr Brownes state their aim is to keep the Royal Oak as a proper country pub - welcoming and friendly and at the heart of the village. With good beer, eventually great food and a place where everyone feels relaxed and at home. "Cheers to the next chapter!"

Piers Morgan still calls into the Royal Oak when he visits Newick. He was brought up in the village, attended Cumnor House School, Chailey School and later the Lewes based Priory School.