THE new manager of the Black Swan, in Lower Withington, wants to turn the popular establishment into a ‘destination’ pub that provides an ‘excellent customer experience’.

Gary Birkin said he is excited about working with a committed team and new head chef, Jack Mullen, who started in December.

Gary joins them after managing a gastro pub in Staffordshire.

“The Black Swan has so much potential," he said.

“It’s already a popular venue with a solid local clientele but it’s worthy of becoming a destination pub and attracting many more customers from further afield.

“It’s an extremely attractive venue, beautifully decorated so as to be welcoming and homely and sits in stunning countryside.

“But, most importantly for me, the team are 100 percent committed to providing a consistently excellent customer experience and that’s the best foundation for me to work with and do my job.”

Gary started in pub management in the late 1980s and spent three years working for a cruise company before returning to dry land.

He then worked in many high street bars and restaurants and developed the northern arm of a south east leisure group.

Gary added: “In more recent years, I’ve enjoyed applying that knowledge to venues that are a pleasure to work in, helping them grow and establish a consistently high standard of service and food and beverage offering.”

To find out more about the venue visit blackswancheshire.com