Punch Pubs and Co has expanded its portfolio with the addition of The Bull in Bedford, the Grey Horses Inn in Carlton-in-Lindrick, and The Salmon Leap in Totton.
The Bull, located near Bedford’s town center, will be part of Punch’s leased and tenanted estate, managed by publicans Dean and Sarah Harris, who have successfully operated the pub for the past five years. The establishment is situated in a low-rise residential area, features an outdoor trading space, and includes an L-shaped bar server.
Andrew Cannons, head of estate development and acquisitions at Punch Pubs, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: “We are pleased to welcome The Bull into the Punch family and look forward to collaborating with Dean, Sarah, and their team. With our industry-leading investment and support, we will ensure that The Bull remains a cornerstone of the Bedford community for years to come.”
Lee Greenwood, operations manager at Punch Pubs, remarked, “Dean and Sarah have built strong ties within the community and are truly passionate about pubs and people. I’m thrilled that they will continue their journey at The Bull, and I look forward to collaborating to ensure this community pub thrives.”
The Grey Horses Inn, located on The Cross just off the High Road, will be managed by father-and-son duo Ken and Jack Jarvis. Experienced in the hospitality industry, they aim to deepen the pub’s community ties, building on the success of previous publicans Chris and Sally. The pub features two separate trading areas, a timber bar servery, a fireplace, a function room with its own bar and dancefloor, and an enclosed beer garden with picnic seating.
Cannons commented, “This is an excellent pub that fits perfectly within our leased and tenanted estate. With Punch’s top-notch investment and support, I am confident the Grey Horses will continue to prosper for many years.”
The Salmon Leap, which opened in 1962, has become a local hub for events, food, and drinks, serving as a meeting place for both guests and residents. Publican Shane Light, who has worked alongside his father Eric, will take over the established pub.
Jay Pearce, operations manager at Punch Pubs, stated, “It’s wonderful to see the evolution of this fantastic pub. I’m thrilled that Eric has passed down his hospitality skills to Shane, who I know will continue to operate a remarkable pub. It’s also great to hear that Shane and Sanna will retain The Salmon Leap’s existing team, and I’m excited to work alongside them to build a successful future.”
