Simple pleasures to be had at first micropub in Sussex

Experienced pub landlord Nigel Watson, 56, opened Anchored, in West Buildings, Worthing, three weeks ago. after seeing similar businesses in Kent.

He hopes Sussex’s first venture into the no-frills micropub will be a success.

He said: “It’s a small and simple real ale drinking pub, and that’s it. It does not have the distractions of a modern pub.

“This is the 31st in the country, and the idea started in Kent, so most of them are there.

“It has had a good reaction from those who have visited, mostly surprised at what it’s like.”

The micropub will stock locally-brewed beers, wines and ciders – all of which will be from Sussex.

The range and number of local brewers, which stands at around 40 brewers and eight cider makers, was behind the decision to set-up in Worthing.

Mr Watson said: “I have been travelling around most of my adult life, and could have opened anywhere along the south coast.

“But Worthing had everything, and was close to a lot of brewers and cider makers.

“It has been a long journey, having to get planning permission and licences, but it’s exciting to be open.”

Mr Watson has a three-year lease on the building, which has limited opening hours under its current licence.

He hopes the venture will be successful enough to extend his tenure.

He said: “As an ale drinker, it is the sort of place I like to drink.

“I first heard about micropubs on the radio, and went and visited one in Kent.

“People come to a micropub and they converse, and everybody ends of talking to each other.”

Business is proving slow so far, but Nigel believes it will pick -up as word spreads.

He said: “We’re covering costs at the moment, and every day gets better.

“When somebody new comes in, it is very pleasing.”