UK: Shepherd Neame buys classic pub in East Sussex

Shepherd Neame has acquired one of East Sussex's prettiest historic ale houses, The Horse & Groom, in Rushlake Green near Heathfield, from former World Spoofing Champion Mike Chappell and his wife Sue, the brewer announced on December 20.

The pub is set on the village green and is regularly featured in the Good Pub Guide. Steeped in history, it has changed little since it was built in around 1650 and has been known as the Horse & Groom since 1777.

The Horse & Groom is simply furnished in traditional style, with low wooden beams and feature fireplaces creating a warm, snug atmosphere. Its restaurant boasts a good range of meals and daily specials including fish from Hastings and local game.

A large cottage garden overlooks the village green and offers views of the countryside.

Mike and Sue Chappell will continue to run the pub. Mike was crowned World Spoofing Champion in 2003 in Sydney during the Rugby World Cup and continues to compete in national and international championships. He regularly plays spoofing, a 'guess the number' game, at the Horse & Groom.

Shepherd Neame property director George Barnes said: "We are delighted to have purchased the Horse & Groom, which is a classic pub in every sense. It is very welcoming and inviting with good beer and food - just what a pub should be."