Fox and Goose re-opens - but strictly no swearing (Oh, and no phones!)

The Fox and Goose in Farmers Way on the Westlands estate in Droitwich reopened on Saturday, June 25.

The pub had been closed for nearly three years due to a row over swearing. 

Now it has opened again under new management the rules are just as strict.

The new landlords, who live above the pub, say the last thing they want is for the boozer to close again and for them to have to leave because a punter has turned the air blue.

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The pub had only been open for seven weeks when it closed suddenly after it was reported the brewery owner heard a swear word in October 2019.

Locals said Humphrey Smith, the owner of the Samuel Smith brewery, made a visit to the pub before it closed.

FLASHBACK: The Fox and Goose as it looked in October 2019

Now Alex Savage, 68, and partner Ana Hale-Askew, 22, have taken over management of the pub and are welcoming customers back - provided they curtail any foul language.

Mr Savage said: "If the pub gets closed we will lose our home as well. I don't want to be in that situation. I've got visions of running this place for a couple of years."

Mr Savage has worked for 12 years with Samuel Smith's Brewery and both he and Ms Hale-Askew have personal licences.

The pair welcome customers new and old back to the boozer but warned "Mr Smith's rules still apply".

CHANGE: What a difference a year or three can make. Ana Hale-Askew and Alex Savage are the new managers

It includes no swearing and no use of mobile phones or tablets inside.

Those making or taking calls are expected to go outside to do so.

Searching Google or updating social media will also be in breach of the rules. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Mr Savage said: "It was the swearing that got us closed last time. We have had two complete trading weeks. Everybody that we have met who has come into the pub has been absolutely brilliant. 

"A lot of that reputation was in the past and no longer justified. We're open for business. Please show your faces and give the beer a try.

"To help us keep it open we need people to work with us and control their language."

The pair cleaned away 'three years of cobwebs' to get the pub ready for customers. Although the decor is still the same, the couple has made sure the upholstery and carpets are clean.

He assured customers that the 'full range of beers' that were available before the closure are on offer.

At the moment, however, the pub is not offering food. The pub is cash only although that may change in future.