The Saxton Arms has now got a sign saying ‘General Store – Now Open’. I was not quite sure what to expect, but could see the ‘Pig Rowe Headquarters’ sign had gone from the front.

Inside they are selling off the pictures and boards, Aunt Sally sets, cleaning equipment and pub handles.

There is also the blackboard that used to stand outside the door – priced at £40.

The pub was recently closed and people are waiting to see what happens next.

Back in May 2014, Greene King sold 275 pubs to Hawthorn Leisure, a new operator that was quickly expanding with the help of overseas investment. This winter the two Abingdon pubs that were part of that initial deal –

the Cross Keys

and the Saxton Arms in Abingdon, have boards in the windows to say they are closed.

Two years ago the Nags Head re-opened. It had been a failing pub and was closed for quite some time. During the first winter the pub was refurbished very tastefully and the first year was a success.

During the second winter decking was added to improve the island, and the second year has gone well.

More improvements are underway to landscape the near end of the island.

The pub now has it’s own beer, and as well being in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for the second year running, has retained the title of Town & Country Pub of the Year.

To celebrate there will be a Beer Festival this weekend from 24th to the 26th October with 28 beers and 10 ciders.

The Narrows was forced to close because of _______ earlier this week but is open again this evening. The big windows that open onto the High Street are a great design feature on hot summer evenings.