Award for pub's continued success
A husband and wife duo have proved that business success can be still be achieved despite the economic downturn.
Takings at The Old Bell in Hemel Hempstead have resisted a slump during the recession, thanks to managers Russell Dockerill, 45, and his wife Anita, 39.
The couple moved in to the old town drinking venue in 2007 and it has become a firm favourite with young and old punters alike.
In February - in recognition of the pub's continued success - they were rewarded with an all expenses paid trip and a top management award.
Of the Spirit Group's 900 managed pubs across the country, The Old Bell was one of just 10 to receive a Spirit Stars award and a VIP trip to Prague.
Mr Dockerill said: "The pub has grown and I think it's largely down to the friendly atmosphere, especially at the weekends.
"We don't tolerate any loutish behaviour and we're very female-friendly."
The award measures how Spirit Group managers deliver profit against budget and still deliver a great customer experience.
A spokesman for the company said Mr and Mrs Dockerill had been chosen 'in recognition of their dedication and innovative approach to running their pub business'.
During the week the historic 16th century pub has nightly entertainment, such as darts and quizzes, but there is always a quiet corner for those looking to drink in peace.
Mr Dockerill, who has been running pubs for 15 years - including a stint at The Red Lion in Nash Mills - said: "One of our biggest selling points is that there's not a lot of traditional pubs around.
"The way it was built means there's little rooms people can drink in if they want a quiet pint with a newspaper."
Punters are so happy with their local, they have even set up a group called The Old Bell Appreciation Society on social networking website Facebook.com.
"Lots of places are struggling a bit at the moment," said Mr Dockerill.
"But we seem to have got it right."
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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