14/06/2026
Many of you will have noticed that I've been less visible around the pub recently, and I wanted to share a little about why.
The photo we've posted alongside this update was taken on our very first weekend at The Brit. Looking back at it now reminds Joe and me just how far we've come, how much we've achieved together, and why we started this journey in the first place. Owning and running this pub has always been a dream come true for us, and despite everything we've faced, that hasn't changed for a second.
As many of our regulars know, Joe has been unwell for the past six months. Alongside that, the hospitality industry continues to face enormous challenges. Rising costs, increasing pressures on small businesses, staffing difficulties, and a difficult economic climate have made the last few years some of the toughest our industry has ever experienced.
Trying to balance those pressures while supporting my family and caring for Joe has taken a significant toll on my mental health. For longer than I was willing to admit, I have been struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout and overwhelm. Last weekend, things reached a point where I experienced a serious mental health crisis, and it became clear that I needed to stop, listen to my body, and take some time to focus on my recovery.
Thankfully, this coincided with some planned time away, giving me the opportunity to rest, spend precious time with Joe and Oliver, and begin taking the steps I need to get well again.
As a result, you may notice that I'm around less than usual over the coming weeks, and there may be some temporary adjustments to how things operate behind the scenes. Please bear with us while we make those changes. The pub will continue to trade as normal, supported by our incredible team, who continue to amaze us every day with their hard work, dedication and loyalty. We are so fortunate to have them.
The Brit is far more than just a business to us. It is our home, our passion, and the place where we've built friendships, memories and a community that means the world to us. Over the years, so many of you have become much more than customers. You've become familiar faces, friends, and part of the extended family that makes this place so special. You are what makes The Brit what it is.
Taking some time to recover is not stepping away from that dream. It's making sure I can continue living it and being part of this wonderful community for many years to come.
To every single person who has supported us over the past few months, and throughout our journey, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Whether you've popped in for a pint, attended an event, recommended us to friends and family, left a kind review, sent a message of support, checked in on us, or simply continued to choose The Brit when there are so many places you could go, please know that we never take it for granted.
Your loyalty, kindness and support have carried us through some very difficult times. On the days when things have felt overwhelming, it has been the encouragement of our customers, regulars and friends that has helped us keep going. You have celebrated our successes with us, stood by us during the challenges, and helped create the welcoming, friendly atmosphere that makes The Brit what it is today.
Joe and I are deeply grateful for every one of you. The support you've shown us, not just as business owners but as people, has meant more than you'll ever know.
We look forward to welcoming you through our doors as always, and I look forward to returning to full strength in the weeks ahead.
With love, gratitude, and heartfelt thanks,
Owain x
