Cartmel licensees celebrate 20 years behind the bar

The licensees of The Cavendish Arms in Cartmel have received a long service award to mark their 20th anniversary at the pub.

The award from Star Pubs, formerly Star Pubs & Bars, recognises the contribution Richard and Donna English have made to the community.

Since taking the pub on at the end of 2003, the duo have transformed The Cavendish Arms from a quiet drinkers pub to a country inn with bedrooms renowned for its food. 

"I feel incredibly fortunate to do the job that I do and have no intention of retiring any time soon," says Richard. "It gives me a great sese of pride to make people happy. We had an open house to thank locals for supporting us and were overwhelmed by the massive turn out. It was humbling to hear how important the pub is to everyone.  

"So, the award isn’t just for us, it’s for our staff too, who we’d like to thank for their help getting us to where we are today and for believing in us. The day we took on The Cavendish Arms was my birthday and what a present that proved to be! Back then trade was fairly quiet and I still have our first day’s takings of £8.68 as a reminder of how far we’ve come."

Charitable efforts 

During their time at The Cavendish Arms, the couple have helped raise £30,000 for charity, including £19,000 for the Morecombe Bay Search & Rescue hoverboard.

"Congratulations to Richard and Donna for their well-deserved award," says Rick Rose-Coulthard Star Pubs business development manager. "They have put their heart and soul into creating a superb food-oriented pub with a loyal customer following. And it’s not just locals who recognise how great The Cavendish Arms is. The Sunday Times recently highlighted it as the place to base yourself if you’re exploring the area. I wish Richard and Donna both many happy years to come at The Cavendish Arms."

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