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www.ilkestonlife.com ILKESTON LIFE August 2021 15

Chequers licensees receive

20 years service award

he licensees of The Cheq- opportunity to undertake a £50,000
Tuers Inn at Stanton by Dale internal and external refurbishment,
have received a prestigious long doing much of the work them-
service award to mark their 20th selves to make it more affordable.
anniversary at the pub. Lockdown 1 saw the duo create a
stunning 48-seater outdoor covered
Ilkeston born-and-bred Ian and space complete with heating,
Sue Moon – who both turn 60 this festoon lighting and a stage for
year – are now aiming to clock up a musicians. The Moons completed
further decade at the helm. the effect by replanting the garden
The award from the pub’s owners – with a beautiful floral display. In
Star Pubs & Bars – recognises the lockdown 2 the couple lovingly
contribution the Moons have made renovated the cosy 1800’s pub,
to the community. Since taking The exposing original features such
Chequers on in 2001, the couple as brickwork and beams, whilst
have restored it as a hub of local making it more comfortable and
life and established its reputation as contemporary. couldn’t wait to reopen and see Looking to the future the Moons Sue. Their care and attention is
a quintessential village pub offering Former customers of The Cheq- them again. Revamping the pub say their greatest wish is for The second to none. It’s brilliant news
great cask ales and home-cooked uers, Ian and Sue admit that they was our way of showing our thanks Chequers to remain a vital part for Stanton by Dale that the Moons
food. The pub is known for giving took the pub “on a whim” and to our customers for their support of Stanton by Dale in the years to have taken another 10-year lease on
back to the area it serves. Over the without any experience when the and giving the village something to come. Adds Sue: “It’s our dream to The Chequers.”
years the Moons and their custom- previous landlord told them he was look forward to at a difficult time. pass it on to one of our family on The Chequers was originally
ers have raised more than £15,000 leaving. Says Ian: “It’s a beautiful We tried to add the wow factor, and our 30th anniversary.” part of a row of cottages. By the
for Ilkeston based charity Ben’s old pub with a wonderful atmos- the response has been amazing.” Comments Star Pubs & Bars area 1840s it had become a grocery
Den, which organises holidays for phere, we couldn’t resist it.” Two Sue had another surprise for manager Amanda Bloor: “This shop and beer house. Draught beer
terminally ill children. decades later the couple have no customers when The Chequers re- award is well deserved, and it’s an was served straight from wooden
When the pandemic hit, Ian and regrets. Continues Ian: “We abso- opened after lockdown 2. Inspired honour to present it. Ian and Sue barrels covered with wet towels
Sue took a positive approach lutely love running The Chequers, by attending a falconry experience have put their hearts and souls into to chill it until 1970. In that year
launching takeaway draught beer to and the best part is our loyal team day, she bought and trained her The Chequers and built it up into the pub was extended to its current
spread some good cheer in Stanton of staff and friendly customers. own Harris hawk. Ken is now a a fantastic traditional pub where foot print, a temperature-controlled
by Dale. Concerned to keep The We hated being forced to close much-loved member of The Cheq- customers are assured of a perfect cellar was installed and a car park
Chequers thriving for the long by covid. Many of our regulars uers’ team and performs flying pint, a warm welcome and good added.
term, the couple also seized the have become fantastic friends. We displays for customers. pub food cooked from scratch by

John’s
Joke
of the
month

So
they’re
finally
making
a film
about A Jurassic adventure
Big Ben.
It’s Visitors to Erewash Museum were transported back in time to the days
when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Prehistoric creatures of all shapes and
about sizes delighted children and parents at the themed event from 3rd to 7th
time. August. There was a special treat in store on the Friday with the appear-
ance of Pete the animatronic baby T-Rex and his friends the baby dinos,
roaming and roaring around the museum grounds meeting the visitors.
- John Allen Emergency Services Day at the Museum - Saturday 21st August, 11am
till 3pm. An opportunity to come and meet your local heroes.
Ron Bannister

After taking early retirement at the age of 62, it was suggested that I should
find a hobby. I joined an art club where members of all ages were painting,
friendly and helpful.
On joining the Smoothie Art Gallery where my paintings were hung, I found
it a surprise when I heard a painting had been sold – a rare delight Paul &
Lina were surprised to learn that I was 91 on 2nd July and still enjoying
painting and the Smoothie Bar.