Over two years ago The Silks on the Downs, Ogbourne St Andrew’s only and well-regarded pub closed it’s doors. Covid was probably the final nail, as it was for so many other pubs across the country.
But today – it’s back. The Silks on the Downs pub in Ogbourne St Andrew, will open its doors to the public once again today having been saved and lovingly renovated by the local community.
The pub last opened its doors almost two and a half years ago and its future was less than certain. Working with the owner of the pub, members of the Ogbourne Community came together to raise funds to buy and open the pub once again for the benefit of the community.
Since then, almost 200 people from the local community and beyond helped raise almost £240,000. This was match funded by the Government’s Community Ownership Fund, giving the green light for the purchase of the pub in May 2022. With the keys secured, a small army of volunteers have worked day and night to lovingly restore the pub giving it a warm and welcoming new lease of life as it starts its next chapter.
From today, Tuesday 27 September, customers will once again be able to enjoy the delicious food and drink and a warm welcome, for which the Silks has long been renowned. The pub is managed by Cameron Thomas, formerly general manager at Hilliers Small Plates & Wine in Marlborough, who joins forces once again with head chef Graham Corbett who was the proprietor and head chef of Hillers.
Cameron said: “It’s really exciting to be able to open the doors of the Silks once again. The work that has been done to buy and refurbish the pub by the community for the community has been incredible. I’m sure that customers will be blown away with how the pub looks and the warm welcome and delicious food that awaits. We use the best of fresh local produce to create classic pub dishes with a twist. We also have a range of locally sourced beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks making the Silks a space for everyone to enjoy. I’m really looking forward to welcoming everyone.
Stuart Williamson from Ogbourne Community Pub Society said: “The Silks on the Downs has brought together our community, including those from neighbouring villages and local towns, for over 100 years. Even though its doors have been closed for the last two and a half years, it’s still been bringing people together, driven by a deep commitment to bring the pub back to life for the benefit of all. It’s such as huge achievement and we’re all so proud and grateful of the immense contribution from so many people since we bought the pub in May this year.
The pub will be open Tuesday to Saturday 12-3pm and 6–11pm and Sunday 12-5pm and customers can make a booking for lunch or dinner by emailing hello@silksonthedowns.co.uk or by calling 01672 705064. To view the seasonal food and drinks menu visit silksonthedowns.co.uk.
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