Apologies!

Sorry for the lack of updates but I'm still trying to convince TDC that I'm not trying to open up a Mega-Spoons with lap dancing, sychronised rioting and under age drinking binges. They seem to have no concept of what a Micro Pub is and have ignored my suggestion of a site-visit to the Butcher's Arms. They have whinged about everything from refuse building up outside (I'm only selling draft beer for goodness sake - how much rubbish is that going to generate?) to the cooling system. Yes, that's right, the cooling system used successfully at pubs and beer festivals up and down the country. I'm still fighting, however, and have some good people on my side - I'm now even more determined to see it through. Watch this space.

Lease!

The draft lease arrived from the landlord's solicitor today. Lots of legalese to work through over the next day or two but at least I have something to do, following over a week of silence from TDC. The bar-stools are polishing up well.

Seating!

Popped up to the erstwhile Ropemakers Arms in Chatham this afternoon and picked up some nice bar-stools which I'd purchased on ebay. Always sad to see a pub close but one mans meat, etc, etc. At least now my customers will have something to rest their weary brains on.

Bogged Down!

Environmental Health have had a site visit and have objected to the project because there is no toilet. There IS a toilet. I have sent them a picture of the toilet. Hopefully, they now have someting to go on.

Festival!

Just got back from the Kent Beer Festival. Lots of interest in my project from those lovely CAMRA folk. Shame that the cheapest beer was £2.70 a pint and there was a 5p premium on halves. At least it was better than Chelmsford, where there was a 10p premium on thirds. Hope to do better than that at the Conqueror. Not long now to the Ramsgate FC Festival (next Friday & Saturday) where there will be no price hike for those that want to try beers in lesser quantities.

Workshop!

I attended a workshop at Margate's Media Centre (the old Cobb's Bank) today. It was aimed at people starting their own business (like me) and I found it really useful, making lots of contacts and getting support and encouragement for the project. Cheers, guys!

Photos!

I've been going through some old photos and postcards of the PS Conqueror. Here's a nice one of her in Boulogne Harbour. Been in exactly the same place on a SeaCat a few times myself. Once the micro-pub is up and running, there will be plenty of pictures like this on the wall. Worth popping in to look at, even if you're a teetotaller! Still no news on planning consent but it was never going to take just a few days, was it?