Alex Coward has been running The Alston for the last year

A pub between Preston and Longridge has seen a turnaround in its fortunes – and is expanding further.

Eight new jobs are being created after a new barn was built at The Alston in Inglewhite Road.

Advertisements

The new build timber frame barn has a secret garden with lighting and is ideal for barbecues.

Up to 40 people can be seated in the barn and can be booked for private parties and dining.

Alex Coward, who took over the pub last year, said: “We’ve upgraded the interior and exterior and introduced the type of food villagers and customers told us they want – great quality country pub food at affordable prices. We’ve also established good relations with local clubs such as the Longridge town football teams. As a result, trade has doubled and we needed to expand.

“Customers who’ve seen the new barn and secret garden absolutely love it. There’s nothing like it in the area. The Alston Pub & Dining is in a wonderful setting. It just needed investment and an appreciation of what customers want to realise its potential.”

Read more: New beer garden at The White Bull after revamp

The barn cost £50,000 and is the second investment from owners Star Pubs and Bars after a £140,000 refurb last year.

Managing director of Star Pubs and Bars Lawson Mountstevens said: “Alex and his team have done a great job creating a top quality friendly pub that people want to visit. Customers love what they’re doing so it’s not surprising they have got a Trip Advisor certificate of excellence. The new space will be a real asset to the pub and the community.”

Have you been to The Alston? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below