New landlords of pub which was closed down after customer used F-word are banning “potty mouths”

The new landlords of a Samuel Smith pub which was closed down after a customer used the F-word are banning “potty mouths” from the boozer.

Strict brewery boss Humphrey Smith was appalled when he popped into The Fox & Goose and overheard a customer utter the four-letter word in October 2019.

He closed the brand new pub - which had only been open for seven weeks - overnight and the popular watering hole lay empty for almost three years.

Mr Smith, 76, who runs 300 pubs across the UK, has now agreed to reopen The Fox & Goose in Droitwich, Worcs., on the condition punters "keep it clean".

New landlords Ana Hale-Askew and Alex Savage, who live above the pub in the Westlands estate in the town, say anyone caught swearing will be asked to leave.

Alex, 68, said: “We are welcoming customers back, provided they curtail any foul language.

"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.

"We've told everyone to come in, enjoy a drink and have a laugh but for heaven's sake keep it clean."

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

The "zero tolerance" policy also includes a ban on using mobile phones or electronic 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 are also banned from entering the pub unless they are using the toilet.

Alex added: "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."

His partner Ana Hale-Askew, 22, added: ‘’We always have to keep our ear out for any bad language.

"We give people a gentle warning if they swear and then if they do it again they're asked to leave.

"Thankfully it hasn't happened very often since we've been here.

"One thing about running a Samuel Smith pub is that you follow the rules whatever they may be and that means no potty mouths.

"The customers are very glad the pub has re-opened and we're looking forward to getting to know the locals."