Pub boss turns Shields boozer The Jester around
A South Tyneside pub boss says he is turning its reputation around '“ thanks to its popular carvery.
Karl Briggs, manager of The Jester, in Tasmania Road, Brockley Whins, South Shields, admits his has been viewed in a negative light by local residents for some time.
Disruption and regular visits from the police gave the boozer a rowdy reputation, but Mr Briggs says there’s now a family-friendly atmosphere.
The 46-year-old, from South Shields, said: “The pub has completely turned around now.
“It had a very bad reputation, but it’s under new management and things have changed.
“There’s more of a focus on food and there’s a really family-friendly atmosphere.”
He added: “Our Sunday carvery became so popular that we started doing it seven days a week and we’ve got loads of deals on.
“The pub’s reputation took quite a hiding from things that have happened here over the years, but we want people to know it’s not the same pub now.”
The venue has been given a fresh look with a makeover and Mr Briggs says it now attracts a very different type of clientele.
The dad-of-eight added: “We’ve done a lot of work to the pub and the atmosphere is feeling so much better.
“It’s got much more of a friendly feel now and it’s catered more towards families and older people. It’s a hive of activity on a Sunday, it’s always absolutely buzzing and it’s like a totally different place to what it was before.
“We’ve got quite a good reputation on the ‘NorthEast Foodies’ Facebook page as well.
“We have darts and pool teams too and we offer a bit of everything. It’s an old pub with a new feel and I hope people come along to give it a chance.”