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13
Jan

The managers of a well-known pub near Knaresborough have announced their departure.
Laura Davis and James Campbell, who have managed The Malt Shovel at Brearton since October 2022, today (January 13) issued a statement on social media confirming the news after it started "circulating".
It says:
We feel it is important we inform you that yes, unfortunately, it is true that we - James, Laura and team – with very heavy hearts are departing from The Malt Shovel at the end of February/beginning of March.
The managers reassured customers the pub, which dates back to the 16th century, will not close and someone else will take the reins.
The reason behind their departure was not specified, but the statement adds:
There are a number of reasons for our departure, and we are extremely sad to go, but ultimately our health, family and wellbeing is [sic] our top priority.
We wish the new team all the very best with the next chapter of The Malt Shovel.

Laura Davis and James Campbell
The news comes after the pub was bought by Inglenook Inns and Taverns in 2024 and underwent a £10,000 makeover.
James and Laura assured customers at the time there would be little change to daily operations and the pub would continue to run under their supervision.
Today’s statement said:
We will still be around for a few weeks yet, so plenty of time for you to pop in and see us.
We hope to see as many of you as possible before we depart, where we will continue to welcome you all in the same manner as usual and give our heart and souls as we always have right until the end.
A farewell party will be held at The Malt Shovel on Friday, February 20, ahead of James and Laura’s departure.
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