Timo's Bar, Stone

A short walk from a poor mooring on the Trent and Mersey Canal,the pub exterior has flaking paint,while the interior is dated and looking in decline.The entrance lobby has artex wall covering while the bar to the left is gloomy with quite a few blown light bulbs not replaced.The lack of lighting in the gents only compounded the air of neglect. The wooden clad bar had four handpumps,two unused while Bass and a house brew Lakeside Lancaster by Coachhouse were available.The Bass was rather cold but drinkable.A lot of Coors keg products are also available. The carpeted bar room opens out around a large fireplace with a log fire while at this end there is a large blue covered banquette and an unusual alcove with a fitted bench close to a table skittles board.The old TV screening lunchtime ITV at a high volume and the regulars pertched on bar stools completed the downbeat atmosphere.Off the bar there is an impressively large function room for hire and outside there are cheap pitches for tents and caravans which must help bring in much needed revenue and custom. Food is served,pub grub stables with mains between £7 -£10 ,although there are light bite options and a childs menu.There is a Sunday quiz and the greeting from the husband and wife team was friendly and helpful. It may be a case of use it or loose it,the pub seems to be struggling but it does have some potential if investment were forthcoming.