Popular Isle of Wight village pub under new ownership

The Vine Inn, in St Helens, officially changed hands on Thursday, September 3.

Former owners Jan and Liam, alongside Carina, announced the change in a customer notice.

Jan is retiring and Carina is moving on, while Liam is focusing on his young family and another pub.

The venue reopened on Friday, September 4, under the ownership of Abi, the current second chef, and her partner Dan, who both have experience in hospitality.

In a statement, outgoing owners Jan, Liam, and Carina said: "It’s been an incredible journey getting the pub to where it is today.

“A journey we are incredibly proud of, with none of it being possible without the fantastic staff and loyal customers from near and far.

"We wish Dan and Abi all the very best with their wonderful pub and hope they are as happy as we’ve been.

“We can’t thank everyone enough for the big hugs, warm wishes, phone calls, messages, cards, gifts and flowers.

“It’s been an absolute privilege and a pleasure to run such a wonderful village pub.

“The events, the music, the customers, loyal locals, but most of all, to have such a wonderful team that quickly became like family.

“You’ll all be missed more than you realise, and we couldn’t be any prouder of you all.

“So, to the wonderful St Helens, goodbye and thanks for all the memories.”

Under the new management, the existing team will remain in place.

Announcing the change, a spokesperson for the venue said: “Meet your new owners.

“Dan has bags of experience working in hospitality, loves a good old chat, and can’t wait to get round to meeting everyone properly.

“Abi is an absolute legend in the kitchen, creating lots of the wonderful specials, and she is the lady behind the fabulous homemade ice creams everyone’s been enjoying all summer.”