As the region's pubs and bars return to normality - the Leader is again shining a light on the industry with our Pub of the Week feature.

This is an opportunity for landlords and landladies from across Wrexham and Flintshire to have the chance to showcase their establishment.

Now more than ever, it's vital to support our local businesses.

If you would like your pub to be featured, simply fill in our online Q&A here or if you would like more details or nominate a pub, email claire.pierce@newsquest.co.uk

Step inside this week's pub...

FAIRFIELD TAVERN

Erddig Road, Wrexham

Taking on a pub is hard work and long hours. It's a lot for most people.

But the landlady and landlord at the Fairfield Tavern aren't most people.

Before taking over the Wrexham pub in June 2021, landlady Alice Woodfine, 28, was working three jobs. Husband Daniel, 29, worked, and still does, full time as a plant mechanic.

The couple, who now live at the pub, are also parents to two children, aged five and 10.

I caught up with Alice, and it's fair to say it's all been a bit of a whirlwind.

 

The Leader: Alice and Daniel Woodfine on their opening day, June 15, 2021.Alice and Daniel Woodfine on their opening day, June 15, 2021.

 

 

She said: "We didn't really have a lot of time to think about it. From going to the interview for the pub, to getting the keys, was about five days!

"But it was quite a nice time, restrictions were starting to be lifted.

"People had been in for so long. We've seen such a difference in the pub from the June to now.

"The community came out and supported us. It's been a scary time but a good time. Things have just got better and better."

As with many pubs, the community is key, and they have played a huge part in Alice and Daniel's journey at the Fairfield.

Alice said: "Since Dan and I have taken over the pub has gone from strength to strength.

"The community spirit is amazing, everyone who comes into the Fairfield Tavern has a warm welcome from the staff and regulars.

"It is handy just being around the corner from Erddig and Bellevue Park, and dogs are welcome at all times.

 

The skydive Fairfield gang, raising money for Hope House Childrens Hospices.

The skydive Fairfield gang, raising money for Hope House Children's Hospices.

 

"Some of our regulars are taking part in a skydive on June 1, while raising money for local charity Hope House Children's Hospices, a charity close to the hearts of the Fairfield gang. It is just an all round great pub."

And there is plenty going on too.

Alice adds: "We regularly put on disco/karaoke, or live acts. We run the Nuts Poker League, and have a darts and dominos team.

"We have free jukebox on Monday and Wednesday, and run a killer pool competition on Sundays at 3pm.

"When you pop in once, you will guarantee you will want to pop back. We look forward to welcoming all our customers old and new."

 

We won best dressed pub for our area with Marstons, I was determined to get a real tree in the pub!

"We won best dressed pub for our area with Marstons, I was determined to get a real tree in the pub!"

 

And there's more on the horizon.

Alice said: "We are extending our outdoor seating, with a decking area down the side of the pub, ready for the sunny days.

"And we have a few things planned for over the Jubilee weekend.

"On Thursday, June 2 there is a family fun day, Friday will see a few singers entertain regulars, and on the Saturday we have a country and western night.

"We do try and do a bit of something for everyone. Considering we're not a very big pub, we do have a lot going on."

 

Outdoor space at the Fairfield Tavern.

Outdoor space at the Fairfield Tavern.

 

Talking about the future of the pub and the industry as a whole, Alice is optimistic.

She said: "I think it will all bounce back. People have missed out on so much, so they're making the most of it now.

"But it's very much use it or lose it."

And it's people at the heart of everything. Asking Alice what's the best thing about running the pub, she simply says: "The people you meet. From all different walks of life everyday. And everyday is different."

• The Fairfield Tavern is open every day from noon, and you can also follow their busy Facebook page.