Family's 'Labour of Love' Rescues Historic Stockport Pub from Decline
In a heartwarming tale of community spirit and dedication, a family trio has brought a historic Stockport pub back from the brink of ruin, leaving locals emotional and revitalising a cherished local institution. Chris Gent, his father Alan Gent, and daughter-in-law Amy Barker took over the lease of The Crown Inn in July 2025, embarking on a meticulous restoration project that has already earned them prestigious accolades.
A Pub Steeped in History Faces a Decade of Decline
The Crown Inn, a historic freehouse dating back to 1877 when three terraced houses were converted into a drinking establishment, was once considered Stockport's best pub. However, over the last ten years, the venue fell into a state of dilapidation under its former landlord. Patrons dwindled, mirrors were smashed, and rumours of crime plagued its doorstep, casting a shadow over its 148-year legacy.
Meticulous Restoration Breathes New Life
The family's journey began six months ago when they acquired the keys. They undertook a hands-on, painstaking renovation to reverse years of neglect. Their work included stripping layers of poor-quality paint from vintage fireplace tiles, replacing shattered Victorian stained glass panels, and deep-cleaning long-neglected beer lines in the cellar. Alan Gent, 75, described the effort as a total "labour of love", driven by a desire to serve their local community in Greater Manchester.
The emotional impact has been profound. The family reports that locals have been moved to tears, expressing immense gratitude for the pub's revival. Alan reflects on the building's rich history, noting, "In its 148 year history, this place has seen weddings, wakes, breakups, makeups, first dates, last chats - anything and everything you could imagine. If these walls could talk, there wouldn't be a book big enough to hold the pages."
Championing the British Pub and Community Hub
The family now actively supports campaigns to preserve British pubs, highlighting their cultural and social importance. Chris Gent, 40, who previously worked in a Sainsbury's bakery and co-owns Stockport's The Petersgate Tap with his father, emphasised the critical role pubs play. "Pubs are a part of British culture, they're a part of our national identity that shouldn't be taken for granted," he stated. "Nowhere else in the world has them and therefore they're an institution that needs to be respected, preserved and celebrated."
He pointed to alarming closure rates, with one pub shutting every day last year across the country, underscoring the economic and social value these venues provide as community meeting places. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has previously endorsed similar campaigns, calling pubs "hugely important" for community cohesion and wellbeing.
A Dream Realised Through Family Effort
For Amy Barker, 38, who left her job as a vet's receptionist to run The Crown Inn full-time, the project fulfils a childhood dream of owning a traditional pub. She often works 13-hour shifts behind the bar, driven by a passion for the social role pubs play. "Pubs are a place of friendship, of solace, of fun - of life," she said. "Look around a pub and you'll see all walks of life - all races, ages, beliefs, genders. They're somewhere you can come and be completely yourself."
The restoration has been a genuine family affair, with Amy's three teenage daughters helping out in exchange for snacks, and the project strengthening bonds between Chris, Alan, and Amy. "Working together has brought us closer than ever," Chris noted.
Overwhelming Local Support and Future Plans
The community's response has been overwhelmingly positive. After six weeks of intensive renovations—including replastering walls, removing outdated wallpaper, and repainting the facade—the pub reopened in August 2025 to a queue out the door. Older regulars, who rely on the pub for social interaction, were particularly grateful, with some even visiting on Christmas Day for companionship.
The pub's revival has not gone unnoticed by industry bodies. Last week, The Crown Inn was a runner-up in the prestigious CAMRA Heritage Award, which honours those who preserve historic pub interiors. It also won 'Most Improved Pub of the Year' in Stockport and South Manchester. The family has introduced monthly quiz nights, regular live music featuring local groups like a ukulele band, and plans for an outdoor bar and a summer of live events.
As for the future, while Chris jokes about saying "never again" after taking on another pub, he remains committed to the cause. "Pubs are closing at an alarming rate, which is a shame. I'd love to be part of the change," he said, expressing hope that their story might inspire a broader pub revolution across the UK.
