July 31, 2017 at 10:50 am

Norton has its roots in agriculture and was first recorded as a settlement in the Domesday Book. The village expanded after the Industrial Revolution as houses were built for miners working in nearby collieries. It is now a thriving village of over 4,500 residents of all ages and boasts two very good schools.

Kirsty and Andy Evans bought the freehold of the pub in 2011 and have since set about developing it as a social hub for the village.  Many clubs and groups meet in the pub (including residents from the local care home);  regular events are put on and in recent years Kirsty has organised and hosted a Village Fete.

Kirsty grew up in the village and had always hoped own the pub and create a village hub.

Project Summary:

Despite being a large and thriving village, Norton, like many villages, has suffered from a gradual reduction in services and activities which provide opportunities for people to socialise and relax in familiar and safe surroundings.

After considering a number of options and engaging with villagers and the Parish Council, Kirsty and Andy decided to create a tea room/café and small shop in a disused garage which is attached to the pub. Kirsty made contact with our Regional Advisor at PiTH and we were able to offer not only support and advice but also a £3,000 grant from our Community Services Fund.

The cafe will be run by Rachel Clarke through her Dainty Doris catering company providing refreshments, cakes and afternoon teas Wednesday to Saturday 9.30am to 4pm. Special events will be hosted for Mums & Toddlers as well as older residents living in the village and at the local care home.
The shop will stock daily essentials such as milk and bread and there will also be a small gift shop.

Outcomes so far:

The Tea Room/Café and small shop (including gift section) will be officially opened on Saturday 5th August 2017.

Lessons to Learn:

• Projects usually take longer than anticipated to come to fruition. Always allow some leeway in your programme to account for the unexpected or the bureaucracy of processes such as change of use.

For more information telephone 01423 546165 or email [email protected]