A landlord of a popular Stoke-on-Trent watering hole has hit back at accusations his pub ‘smells like wee.’
Burslem’s Grade II-listed Duke William recently fell victim to a social media rant by a disgruntled punter.
In the post, the man claimed the ‘entire building smells like a toilet, the staff are rude and the choice of ale is essentially non-existent’.
He also was unhappy with the food on offer.
The customer continued: ‘Such a shame to see that the Duke William has well and truly hit rock bottom.
‘I don’t think there’s any pulling it back now without drastic change!’
But Steve Weeks, who took over the Duke William last October, quickly defended the pub’s honour.
The 58-year-old said he took the feedback as a ‘way to progress’ and had believed he did have ‘flexibility’ with drinks on offer.
He wrote in response: ‘If you have opinions please talk to me in person. Like I said everyone has memories of this place. Which are long gone.
‘I’m not a local, I’m not even from Stoke, but have nothing but drive to make this place work. I still haven’t found what will make this place really buzz, beer styles is definitely not the answer as we don’t throw any away.
‘The trade is completely different since Covid and will take time to find its feet again.’
Other regulars were quick to praise dad-of-two Steve’s efforts to keep one of the most iconic pubs of the city open.
One wrote: ‘Always the same. Complain buildings left empty, then when someone tries from out of the area, the knives go in. Can’t win. But pleased to see someone is trying.’
And another added: ‘Nice to see that you’re fighting through it. Worked in all forms of catering and hospitality for 30-plus years and know your issues all too well. Keep on moving forward and hope that it all settles down with some reward for your obvious passion.
‘If there’s a so-called smell, then there must be plenty punters using it.’
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