We’re delighted to share positive news about the future of the Royal Oak, a place that sits at the very heart of our community.

Over the coming days, we’ll be welcoming a new pub management team, Marianne and Richard Verschoor, who will be taking on the day-to-day running of the pub from 6th April. They bring with them a wealth of experience, fresh ideas, and—most importantly—a real enthusiasm for community-led spaces like ours.

This marks an exciting next step for the Royal Oak as we continue to build on everything that makes it special: a welcoming atmosphere, great food and drink, and a space where people can come together.

A Huge Thank You to Our Team

Before we look ahead, it’s important to recognise what has made this moment possible. Over the past year, since our bar manager and chef resigned, a dedicated group of volunteers and casual staff have worked incredibly hard to keep the pub open and thriving.

In particular, we’d like to thank Ian and Jo.

• Ian has stepped into the role of interim bar manager for the past six months. His commitment, alongside the efforts of everyone involved, has helped carry the Royal Oak through this period and ensured it remains a valued part of village life. As Marianne and Richard take up their roles, Ian will be stepping back into his position as a volunteer and will be supporting them as they settle in—something we’re very grateful for.

• While Jo's primary role is full-time manager of the shop and café, she has gone above and beyond by making use of the kitchen to introduce a much-loved food offering,  with lunch and evening options on selected days. Her initiative, energy and commitment have added something truly special to the Royal Oak, and we’re very pleased that this will continue to grow as part of the next chapter.

Working Together for Something Even Better

A key part of this next phase is collaboration. Marianne and Richard are very much looking forward to working closely with Jo. Whilst Jo continues to lead the shop and café  and Richard and Marianne focus on the pub, together, the team will be exploring ways to offer more regular lunch and evening food options in the café and pub, as well as new events and activities that bring more life into the space throughout the week.

By combining their strengths, we’re confident this team approach will help create an even more vibrant and sustainable future for the Royal Oak.

Looking Ahead

As always, our aim at Heart of the Village is to support initiatives that benefit the whole community—whether that’s through great local food, welcoming social spaces, or opportunities to come together.

We’re really looking forward to seeing Jo, Marianne and Richard working side by side, and to sharing more updates with you as plans develop.

In the meantime, we hope you’ll join us in giving Marianne and Richard a warm welcome when they arrive, and in continuing to support everything that makes the Royal Oak such an important part of village life.

Thank you, as always, for being part of the journey.