Clare Saunders and Pete Evans took over the pub in London Road, Southend, in December last year and are carrying on its tradition as a beacon for ale lovers.

Experts in ale and how to store and serve it, Clare Saunders learnt her craft from the best.

“I worked with the previous owners, John and Chrissy, for 12 years and followed them when they moved from Naval Military Club in Southend,” said Clare.

“They are just such great people to work for and they have taught me so much.”

Clare says the pub had been onthemarketfor a few years before the time was rightto put an offer forward to buy.

“We had a young family and the time just wasn’t right to take on the pub. Then things changed and we came into some money we weren’t expecting and decided to use that to buy the pub,” said Clare.

“It was a surreal experience at first, and I felt abandoned at first when they walked out of the door, luckily, they are still around a lot now. John has retired but he helps us a lot and they have both been so supportive.”

Clare feels like she is continuing a legacy here when it comes to the Olde Trout Tavern.

“People have asked am I planning to change anything? I say, ‘why would I’? Where else can you get real ale like you do here and all the knowledge that goes into looking after it? This is a special place and I want to preserve it not change it,” she said.

They have a beer festival lined up for October and a charity day to raise money for Macmillan on Sunday 14 August from 1pm to 8pm. There will be arts and crafts and stalls outside, a raffle and performances from nine musicians.

They serve two changing ales, which includes Hoptimus Prime and Giggle and Titter at the moment, and their house ale, Trout Ale from Wantsum Brewery.

“You can’t rush a real ale, lots of preparation goes into it before it can be served. You have to wait to let it settle before you tap it and before you serve it,” explained Clare.

They also sell chilled lagers, bitters and a large selection of wines. Food is served Tuesday to Saturday from 12pm to 2.30pm. Search The Olde Trout Tavern on Facebook.