The landlord of popular Crewe pub The Cheshire Cheese is raising a glass to the families and friends who have helped breathe new life into of one of the area’s most historic pubs.

Adam Scally, the pub’s landlord, is celebrating the relaunch of the pub as a community hub, serving a growing population in and around Shavington.

Together, they have called time on the pub’s chequered history, which has seen various changes of ownership and uses, including an Indian restaurant, music bar and long spells standing empty.

To mark his first anniversary at The Cheshire Cheese, Adam, a trained chef, has unveiled plans for a packed spring and summer entertainment programme, as well as a face-lift for the building.

Adam, 37, said: “Like post offices, I am a passionate believer in every community having a ‘true British local’ to call its own, and the Cheese has managed to hang in despite mixed fortunes over the past few years.

“It’s not been easy to shake off the past and convince people I’m here to stay but regulars know I’m on a mission to turn things around.”

Festivities will be kicking off in over Easter, with events including a gin festival, a fish and meat barbecue, a hog roast and a vintage milkshake bar.

St Luke’s family activity double decker red bus will visit the pub over the bank holiday weekend, and the Cheesy Riders – the pub’s new motorcycle club – will be putting their classic bikes on display.

There are also changes to the regular menu, including new gluten-free and vegan options.

Adam said: “The Cheese is a large impressive building that has served the Crewe community since 1852, and while other people have failed to make it work, I know with continued support it will be here for many generations to come.”

There are also plans to create a ‘grow-your-own’ community garden, and Adam is keen to work with green groups who can help with this. He also wants to explore the building’s history, particularly its links to the cheese industry, Crewe railway workers and Bentley motors, and is keen to dedicate an area to local heritage.

Adam and his team are looking forward to hosting their first Mother’s Day, where mums will be pampered and welcomed with Prosecco and homemade truffles.

For more information, call 01270 254494 or visit cheshirecheesecrewe.co.uk