Three into one does go

Three entrepreneurs came together in 2009 to give The Willow a complete turnaround. Martin Broom, Robert Barr and Keith Ross went into partnership to take on the run down pub and turn into a real village pub.

With plenty of expertise from years in the marketing industry Martin Broom saw the opportunity to transform the pub into an exciting, modern, friendly restaurant and bar that is high on community values. Along with his wife, Vivienne, they created the vision and the decor that gives The Willow it’s unique ambience.

Keith’s wife, Sandra, joined the team running front of house, whilst Keith’s considerable expertise in the kitchen delivers the delicious dishes on the menu. "After working for West Ham Football Club, this is fun and much more relaxing," says Keith. Keith has plenty of experience from winning the CSMA Young Chef of the Year whilst at the RAF Club in Piccadilly, he has a solid background of creating fine dining in many member’s clubs in London.

Keith is dedicated to using local suppliers and ensuring that the 'Market Board' has an interesting selection of dishes, including good old British favourites – like Jam Roly Poly!

Robert Barr is the licensee and works closely with Sandra organising the special events and functions. Robert lavishes care and attention on the pub looking after everything from the bar to the flowers, ensuring that the property inside and out stays in first class condition.

The partnership works well and they have plenty of ideas and aspirations for the future. Keith is a qualified NVQ trainer and assessor and his vision is that, one day, the pub will become a training centre for young chefs. He’s also known for his charity work and he and Sandra have raised more than £60,000 for charities – notably stem cell research after he suffered a heart attack himself in 2005.

Find out more about The Willow functions.