Experienced North West publican takes on third pub with Ei Publican Partnerships

Knutsford-based multi-site pub operator, Stephen Evans has acquired his third site, and third with Ei Publican Partnerships following a joint investment of £250k.

Evans is taking on The Old Rathbone in Frankby, formerly known as The Farmer’s Arms, which will reopen on Thursday, 19 October as a quality, traditional pub. He also operates two other pubs in the North West – The Old Sessions House, Knutsford and The Montgomery, Eastham.

The substantial joint investment has transformed and doubled the size of the kitchen, created a new decking area, alongside an all-new children’s play area. The Old Rathbone will also have a refreshed interior, including additional seating area, as well as an improved food and drinks menu offering, including a steak night which takes place every Thursday.

Evans said, “I have a long-standing, good relationship with Ei Publican Partnerships and I saw this as a great opportunity to get the pub renovated for the local community. The pub is looking incredible so I can’t wait until we open the doors and start trading.

“I grew up in the Wirral and the Farmer’s Arms was always a pub I admired so I’m looking forward to adding this to the portfolio, under a new name. We are just pulling together the final preparations for our opening night so it’s all very exciting. We look forward to welcoming everyone to The Old Rathbone.”

Ei Publican Partnerships regional manager, Karen Evans added, “Stephen has a wealth of experience operating a number of pubs in the North West so it was a very easy decision for us to make when he expressed interest in the site. The pub is looking fabulous now and I’m confident the locals are going to love it.”

“We’re always willing to work with successful publicans in growing their businesses. Through providing investment and support where appropriate, we can help reinvigorate pubs for their benefit of their local communities.”