The Pilgrim: May 2010 news

The pub has re-opened with its new name, the Pilgrim (see below). It also has new telephone number – 01296 670969.

The refurbishment project has transformed the inside of the pub and tidied up the external appearance. New managers Neil and Helen Sanders have taken up residence and are very excited about the prospect of giving a traditional village pub back to the village. And over 60 people turned up for the Pub Ground Force morning.

"The support and encouragement we have received from villagers has been overwhelming" commented Neil. "There is no doubt that the community in North Marston can't wait to have their pub back after such a long period when it was in decline."

"As a freehouse, we aim to provide a wide and exciting range of ales and wines to accompany traditional home-made pub food in surroundings where families and friends will feel welcome and relaxed" added Helen.

Why the name change?

Steve George, one of the owners, explains "As villagers will know, North Marston has rich medieval history as the third most popular pilgrimage site in the country for over 300 years. People used to flock here and in particular the Schorne Well, which was reputed to have healing powers. Pilgrims also visited the grave of John Schorne who discovered the well and is said to have trapped 'the devil in his boot' back in the 1300's".

"We canvassed all the villagers and 85% of the residents who responded agreed that we should change the name. The Pilgrim was one of many choices and we felt that it was the right choice as it combined our hope for the Pub's future whilst reflecting on the fascinating history of the village".