Chequers licensees receive long service award
The licensees of The Chequers Inn at Stanton by Dale have received a prestigious long service award to mark their 20th anniversary at the pub. Ilkeston born-and-bred Ian and Sue Moon – who both turn 60 this year – are now aiming to clock up a further decade at the helm.
The award from the pub’s owners – Star Pubs & Bars – recognises the contribution the Moons have made to the community. Since taking The Chequers on in 1991, the couple have restored it as a hub of local life and established its reputation as a quintessential village pub offering great cask ales and home-cooked food. The pub is known for giving back to the area it serves. Over the years the Moons and their customers have raised more than £15,000 for Ilkeston based charity Ben’s Den, which organises holidays for terminally ill children.
When the pandemic hit, Ian and Sue took a positive approach launching takeaway draught beer to spread some good cheer in Stanton by Dale. Concerned to keep The Chequers thriving for the long term, the couple also seized the opportunity to undertake a £50,000 internal and external refurbishment, doing much of the work themselves to make it more affordable. Lockdown 1 saw the duo create a stunning 48-seater outdoor covered space complete with heating, festoon lighting and a stage for musicians. The Moons completed the effect by replanting the garden with a beautiful floral display. In lockdown 2 the couple lovingly renovated the cosy 1800’s pub, exposing original features such as brickwork and beams, whilst making it more comfortable and contemporary.
The Chequers was originally part of a row of cottages. By the 1840s it had become a grocery shop and beer house. Draught beer was served straight from wooden barrels covered with wet towels to chill it until 1970. In that year the pub was extended to its current foot print, a temperature-controlled cellar was installed and a car park added.
More in the next paper.
