A ticked-off pub landlord has swung back at punters claiming his boozer smells like wee.
Steve Weeks runs the Duke William in Stoke-on-Trent, a well-trodden boozer which has recently fallen victim to a rant online.
Situated in a Grade II-listed building in Burslem, the ranter voiced frustration with the food available there and added that the “entire building smells like a toilet, the staff are rude and the choice of ale is essentially non-existent”.
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They continued: “Such a shame to see that the Duke William has well and truly hit rock bottom.
“I don’t think there’s any pulling it back now without drastic change!”
Not particularly high praise, but Steve has now pushed back against the claims.
The father of two took the pint shop over in October 2022 and said the rant has been used by him as a tool to grow and develop it.
He considers the criticism a “way to progress” things, although asked people talk to him rather than take to the internet to air attacking opinions.
Writing his response, he said: “If you have opinions please talk to me in person. Like I said everyone has memories of this place. Which are long gone.
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“I’m not a local, I’m not even from Stoke, but have nothing but drive to make this place work. I still haven’t found what will make this place really buzz, beer styles is definitely not the answer as we don’t throw any away.
“The trade is completely different since Covid and will take time to find its feet again.”
His resistance was met with support from other locals, who were quick to come to the boozer, and by extension Steve’s, aid.
One person said: “Always the same. Complain buildings left empty, then when someone tries from out of the area, the knives go in. Can’t win. But pleased to see someone is trying.”
Another added: “Nice to see that you’re fighting through it. Worked in all forms of catering and hospitality for 30-plus years and know your issues all too well.
“Keep on moving forward and hope that it all settles down with some reward for your obvious passion.
“If there’s a so-called smell, then there must be plenty punters using it.”
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