An Oxfordshire country pub is set to reopen with new landlords due to move in. 

Ian and Jacqui Crayford, who ran The Chequers Inn at Charney Bassett, are taking over The Black Horse in East Hanney. 

The watering hole closed in May after the previous landlords struggled to meet rising costs.

The Black Horse is the only remaining pub in East Hanney. 

In March the landlords announced they were leaving to concentrate on their full-time jobs.

They stated at the time: "It has been an incredible experience that we do not regret, but as most know, we all have full time jobs alongside running the pub so we are exhausted.

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The Black Horse in East Hanney (Image: Ed Nix) "This coupled with ever-increasing costs it’s just getting tougher. So although, a very hard decision, it is the right one for us.

"We would like to thank all of our customers for supporting and welcoming us into your community, and many of you have become great friends who we will miss terribly. It’s been a privilege and we are so very proud of The Black Horse and all we have achieved."

Mr and Mrs Crawford will soon be taking over, with an exact date yet to be announced.

They have been at The Chequers Inn, which dates back to the 17th century, since 2012 and had to deal with a fire at the pub in 2022. 

In a statement, staff said: “As many of you already know The Chequers Inn, Charney Bassett has been sold on.

“Which left Ian and Jacqui very lost and unsure what was going to happen next. But they are never down for long. 

“We have exciting news that you will be able to find them still just down the road! At The Black Horse.

“We will confirm an opening date as soon as possible but will be looking like mid-November.

“And also will announce when they are leaving Charney Bassett when we know more on time frames.”

The statement added: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank every one of you for the last 12 years.

“Your loyal support through all those years has been truly appreciated especially through the very hard times when Covid hit.

“We hope you continue to support Jacqui, Ian and the team on their new venture.

“They have lots of exciting ideas planned and can’t wait to share them with you all soon. 

“Thank you to Brakspears for the last 12 years of support, many great friendships made and we wish them all the best.”

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About the author  

Toby is a senior reporter who has a particular interest in covering planning and local government. 

He joined in September 2024 having been a reporter at the Hampshire Chronicle for three years. 

Toby studied at the University of Brighton and can be found on X through the handle @JournoToby