Vamsi Putta, licensee of The Brook in Cambridge, has taken on The Coach & Horses in Royston, his first Star Pubs & Bars lease. The pub, which has been closed for over three years, is to reopen in early June as The King James following a £210,000 joint investment by Vami Putta, his business partner Prash Nellutla, and Star Pubs & Bars.
Vamsi, who has 25 years hospitality experience, has a long-term plan to establish an estate of five traditional pubs in East Anglia.
Prior to starting to turning around The Brook, Vamsi was a General Manager for Salt Bar & Dining and a Marriot Hotel manager.
Says Vamsi: “Smaller traditional and characterful pubs work well especially in the current economic climate as energy costs are lower and staff recruitment is less problematic.“We decided to rename the pub The King James to reflect the change of offer while celebrating King James’s connection with Royston.
“The King James is in a great location as it is the first pub you pass when walking from the station into town. As well as great drinks, we intend to establish a reputation for gourmet burgers and live acoustic music.”
Star Pubs & Bars Business Development Manager, Dan Hayward says: “With Royston already having more food and sports led pubs, there’s room for a traditional local offering great drinks and simple good pub food with excellent service. Vamsi’s the ideal person to take it forward as he already runs a popular traditional pub in Cambridge and knows the area well. We’re delighted to be supporting Vamsi and Prash in their vision for The King James and reopening a closed pub for the community.”
