A Clitheroe woman is starting a new adventure next week as she becomes the new interim manager at the Waggon and Horses Inn – promising to turn the pub into a 'real community pub'.

Karen Hamlin, who moved to Clitheroe 25 years ago with her family, has more than 40 years’ experience in the hospitality industry and to kick off the new year she is hoping to bring in some changes to the Waggon and Horses Inn.

Beginning as interim manager on January 9, Karen will be in the role for at least six months, and she is hoping to bring the kitchen back, host live band nights, quiz nights and allowing residents to host events in the two private rooms available.

Karen said: “Since moving to Clitheroe 25 years ago with my family we have been welcomed with open arms.

“The community spirit, support and kindness shown by people here towards others is amazing.

“Having worked at The Assheton Arms in Downham, Black Bull in Chatburn, Spread Eagle, Sawley Atrium in Clitheroe, and Edisford Bridge in Clitheroe until January 2, 2023, I was approached and asked if I could help out at one of the businesses whilst the landlord is on sabbatical.

Lancashire Telegraph: Karen Hamlin, the new interim manager at the Waggon and Horses Inn ClitheroeKaren Hamlin, the new interim manager at the Waggon and Horses Inn Clitheroe (Image: Karen Hamlin)

“Obviously the answer was yes because if you can help someone when they are in need and it's possible to help you do it.

“Initially I will be interim manager for six months from January 9 and my aim is to make it a real community pub, where everybody knows your name.

“I want the customers to feel at home when they walk through the door.

“As a community pub I think the community should have their input into what changes are made and what they want.

“We have two large rooms available for hire from February that would be perfect for meetings, yoga, healing, classes and more.

“The kitchen will re-open as soon as possible serving seasonal hearty homemade meals using local produce.

“Sunday roasts and the all-day big breakfast club will be the first to come, so keep your eyes open for starting date.

“There will also be live band nights once a month, with local bands, a quiz night once a month, as the weather improves BBQs every Friday, design your own pizza tea and a car boot every Sunday from Easter.

“Finally, I would like to say thank you for the support I've already received and I'm looking forward to seeing many faces I know and many I’ve yet to meet.”

Karen will start her role on Monday, January 9 and can’t wait to welcome the community to the pub.