Taryn Byron, a 43-year-old mum-of-two from St Helens, stepped in to take over The Windle pub after reading a Facebook post in a community group. A year on from reopening under her management, she is celebrating with staff and customers this weekend.
Last year, Byron came across a status filled with comments from upset Windle residents about the pub's closure. She told the ECHO: "I saw all the posts on Facebook from people who were absolutely gutted that the pub was closing once again. I just thought, 'I need to do this for the community'. I wanted to do it for the people of St Helens because the pub had changed hands so many times over the previous five years."
A Dream Turned into Action
Byron, who also runs The Junction pub in Sutton and Lily's Victorian Tearooms on Hall Street, said having a pub had always been a dream of hers. "I'm going to give this a go, try to turn things around and see what I can achieve. And that's exactly what I've done over the last 12 months," she said.
On Saturday, November 14, the pub will mark a year since reopening with a celebration starting at 7.30pm. The event will feature a magician, music spanning the decades, a complimentary buffet, and a round of shots for everyone.
Perseverance and Hard Work
Byron acknowledged the challenges of her first year, noting she started with no staff and saved money by doing much of the work herself. Now, the pub has a team of around 15 people, which she called "a real achievement in just 12 months."
She said: "You have your ups and downs in business, particularly in your first year, and not many businesses make it through those first 12 months. But I think determination, drive and energy are what make the difference."
Plans for the Future
Looking ahead, Byron wants to invest more into her newest venture. She plans to create a private function room, improve the outside area with an outdoor bar, and introduce more quizzes, bingo, and other events.
She said: "I still have so many plans that I haven't had the chance to put into action during the first 12 months. Hopefully, next year I can make them happen."
