Chesham’s longest-serving licensee — Jane Clarke, of The Pheasant, on Waterside — has received an award to mark her 30th anniversary at the helm.
Jane Clarke behind the bar at The Pheasant
The Dedication Award was presented by the pub’s owner, Star Pubs, in recognition of the contribution Jane has made to the community and The Pheasant over the last three decades.
“I’d been looking for a pub in the area for some time,” said Jane. “Though The Pheasant was in a sorry state, I thought straightway ‘wow, this is it’. It just felt right and like a comfortable pair of slippers.”
Jane immediately set about getting The Pheasant flying again. As well as redecorating, adding pool and darts, and overhauling the car park, she developed a stunning waterside garden on the banks of the River Chess, which runs behind the pub. Complete with a children’s play area and covered patio, it is a popular spot on sunny days.
While other trends have come and gone, Jane has kept the traditional feel of The Pheasant that she fell in love with 30 years ago. The pub is warm and welcoming, with low wood ceilings, two old fireplaces and a cosy snug. The big screen TV only shows terrestrial sports and important events, and a jukebox provides a wide variety of music. Friday nights can be noisy as they usually turn into impromptu singalongs.
During Jane’s tenure, The Pheasant has contributed to the wider community, raising thousands of pounds for charity and funding a neighbourhood defibrillator positioned at the front of the pub. It also provides space for local good causes and organisations to hold their meetings.
Jane said: “I never thought I’d be here this long. I’ve loved every minute and have no plans to call time. It’s all down to my fantastic regulars. I see myself as a custodian of The Pheasant — the customers make a pub and they’re a brilliant bunch.
“There’s lots of laughter every day — it’s tremendously uplifting. People share in each other’s celebrations and happiness, and support each other through the tragedies and hard times, too. This award is just as much for my customers and staff. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
