THE Lamb Inn at Nomandsland, on the border between Hampshire and Wiltshire, has new owners.
It has been taken over by Debbie and Duane Lewis of Country Inns, a family-run business that operates eight other establishments across the New Forest.
Debbie said: “We bought The New Forest Inn in 2008, and that was meant to be a two-year plan.
“15 years later and here we are.”
It was a big change for the pair who had little experience in hospitality.
Before then, Debbie was working in advertising and Duane had a role as senior audiologist for a major hearing aid firm.
Now, after 15 years and a global pandemic, they employ more than 180 people.
The secret to expansion, they say, is to retain the charm and character of each location.
“Sarah and Lee ran The Lamb for 27 years and left it with a lovely country pub feel,” said Debbie, 63.
“We tend to add features, we don’t remove them.
“If floors need sanding or a new carpet, we’ll give them a sparkle, but we want to keep it as cosy as it is.”
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Country Inns updates its menus every season, and The Lamb is no different, with the first refresh planned for Easter.
“Everything we cook is fresh, homemade food,” Debbie said.
Day-to-day, the premises will be run by Dan and Alica, who’ve previously served at the “biggest and busiest” Country Inns site.
Dan said: “I’ve been working in pubs for the best part of 12 years and very excited to be running The Lamb.
“I’m a huge fan of community-driven pubs and love nothing more than a chat over a beer and a bite to eat.”
Alicia added: “I’ve worked in hospitality for a good few years now and have managed to work my way up to assistant manager.
“I’m passionate about many things, one of them being making all my lovely customers and locals feel like we’re one big family.
“I’m incredibly partial to a dark ale and a sing song, which you might be subjected to if you’re visiting us.”
To view the menu or reserve a table, visit www.thelambnomansland.co.uk.
My Great Grandad drank in this pub, would have been 1910 through to the 1950s