Jarrow's oldest pub The Crown and Anchor prepares to reopen on July 4 after major refurbishment

The Crown and Anchor in Chapel Road, Jarrow, was due to open following a complete overhaul earlier this year, but has remained closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

It will finally welcome its first customers back through the doors on Saturday, July 4 when further lockdown restrictions are lifted across the UK.

The historic boozer, which is owned by Trust Inns, was taken over by new landlord Gareth Carr in November 2019.

He pledged to transform the venue from ‘backstreet boozer’ to the pinnacle of Jarrow’s pub scene.

Now known as the Crown and Anchor Pub and Kitchen, it has seen a major refurbishment inside and out, with new signs, a stylish outdoor seating area and modern furnishings throughout.

An Italian restaurant upstairs, Incontri, is run by a chef who previously trained with Gordon Ramsey.

“After not seeing any investment for about 30 years, the pub has had a total overhaul,” said Gareth, whose portfolio of pub refits includes the Purple Peacock in Newcastle city centre.

"We’re really excited about finally being open and are looking forward to seeing everyone.”

But the reopening will be slightly different to how he envisaged, with strict measures in place in line with government guidelines.

Staff will be providing table service, with limits on group sizes for those from different households.

Hand sanitiser stations will be on every entry and exit and areas will be cleaned regularly, with signs directing customers to where is safe to sit.

Toilets will be limited to two people at a time with different entry and exits.

Gareth has taken on additional staff to cope with the extra measures, including security staff to man the door over the weekend.

He is also offering 10 percent off to all NHS staff and key workers from the Viking Shopping Centre in Jarrow for the foreseeable future.

“We wanted to show our support for those who have worked throughout the pandemic,” said the 33-year-old.

“It’s been a tough few months, but we’ve prepared as well as we can and I would just ask everyone to respect our staff and respect the rules.”

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