Publicans of a well-known Newcastle under Lyme venue have been presented with an award to mark their 20th anniversary at the helm and their contribution to the community.
Karen and Phil Hughes have spent two decades in charge of The Waggon & Horses and don’t plan on calling ‘time’ yet – they have extended their lease so they can clock up a further decade at the pub.
Over the years, they have ensured the pub remains known for its warm welcome, great food and drink and excellent entertainment as well as becoming a community hub for residents of all ages, whilst raising thousands of pounds for local charity Dougie Mac.
The pair have been presented with a Dedication Award from Star Pubs – the sixth accolade received in the past month after being recognised in the Pride of Staffordshire Awards 2024 and being a finalist in the LoveNUL Awards.
Karen started working at The Waggon & Horses in 2002 to top up her income from being a mobile hairdresser and persuaded Phil – a builder at the time – to take the pub on two years later when the licensee announced their retirement and regulars were concerned the venue would close.
Four generations of some local families frequent the Higherland pub, and many of the customers who used it when Karen started out are still regulars. It is also a vital meeting place for senior citizens living alone.
Phil said: “The Waggon & Horses is thought to have been operating as an ale house since the early 1800s. Our greatest wish is to keep it thriving for everyone to enjoy.
“We feel very fortunate to have such a fantastic bunch of loyal regulars. They make the pub the special place it is. They’re like family. Our daughter even had her wedding here, and all the customers pitched in to ensure it was a really wonderful day.
“We’re so grateful for their support; it means the world to us and the pub wouldn’t have won these awards without it.”
Andrew Myatt, Star Pubs’ Area Manager for Stoke and North Staffordshire, added: “The Waggon & Horses has stood the test of time, and it’s all down to Karen and Phil, who have given it their all and worked so hard to keep it at the top of its game.
“Their hospitality and standards are second to none. It’s brilliant news for the area that they’ve taken another 10-year lease.”
