A beloved village pub has undergone significant redevelopment and will open its doors again in the coming weeks. The purchase of the freehold and refurbishment of The Cross Keys in Llanfynydd is bittersweet.
Creating Memories
A story that started as one of family loss soon became one of gain. A life legacy to give back to the people and the community that meant so much to Mark Steene, a popular character in the picturesque Flintshire village.
In 2015, Mark had a cycling accident that left him paralysed. Sadly, he passed away six years later aged just 54. A keen cyclist and businessman, he would spend many a happy time at The Cross Keys with friends, creating memories and sharing good times.
His sister Mandy said: “Mark made me his beneficiary and I pondered how to best deal with that inheritance. My heart wanted him, not his money. After a long time just sleeping on it, my head decided I wanted to do something lovely for him and his special place, Llanfynydd.
“So, we collaborated with Mark’s close friends Andrew and Gwenan Roberts and came up with a dream plan to buy the village pub together and do our best to bring life and lustre back into the charming building for all of Mark’s community and friends to enjoy.”
The Spirit And Authenticity
Gwenan added: “It’s important that we capture the spirit and authenticity of the pub’s 17th-century history. We are proud with the beautiful mix of old and new, with many restored features with close links to our local environment.
“The window ledges are made from an old oak tree that was struck by lightning twice in a nearby field. Train tracks that ran alongside the pub more than 70 years ago have also been exposed in the roof in the bar.
“The last passenger train to ever pass through the village was in 1950 and my auntie was onboard. There is so many connections; this place is teeming with history.”
Offa’s Dyke
The bar will be the hub as you walk in with a good selection of cask ales, lagers, and wines. The ‘Old Smithy’ has reclaimed parquet flooring and a log-burning stove leading into a cosy snug with church pew seating.
Other features include an extension to the kitchen complete with new equipment. Outside, the terrace has been extended to take in the wonderful views of Offa’s Dyke and the Welsh hills. The menu will be fresh and seasonal, using local produce and supporting local businesses wherever possible.
For more information, visit their website and follow The Cross Keys on social media at @thecrosskeysllanfynydd. Alternatively, call 01978 760 333 or email info@cross-keys.co.uk. Finally, to keep up to date with the community, click here.
