A family is celebrating a year of success since reopening a St Albans boozer, hoping they have put the pub "back on the map".
Couple Paul and Julie Jones along with daughters Gabi and Izzy (and dog Jay), took on the challenge of opening their first ever pub last year at the Hare & Hounds - which required some TLC.
Since reopening on November 3 last year, the co-landlord Paul, 50, described the success they have enjoyed while in a co-partnership with the Stonegate Group.
"Its has been a successful year, we had lots of doubters at the time as it had been neglected for several years.
"But, the place is back on the map. With our joint partnership, we have recreated the venue as a hotspot for people of all ages."
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The landlord believes they have turned around the Hare & Hounds' previous "dirty and dark" reputation as an "old-mans pub" - particularly in the toilets.
"We have reinvented the place and given it a feminine touch," Paul said.
"It all starts with the toilets! You'd be surprised how many customers remark about them."
On Sunday, to mark a year since the pub reopened, the Jones family hosted a celebratory night featuring music from Katie plus Juan and free prosecco on arrival.
Paul said: "It's a celebration for what we have done, we wouldn't have achieved anything without you guys (the customers), you believed in us when we started, we had a vision and we've done it."
He also highlighted the hard work of their "well-trained" staff in keeping the show running.
In the future, the family hope to continue their current success and fund a redeveloped garden space for the hotter months. Plans include a new children's play area to welcome families.
"No matter who you are, we want to cater for everyone," Paul added. "This whole year has been a learning curve and we know we can do better."
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