A popular town centre Sandbach pub has unveiled the next stage of its major revamp - showing its links with the historical oak leaf and acorn.

The Military Arms on Congleton Road has always celebrated its military name and this is now reflected in its new grey and white signage using a military symbol.

The oak leaf and acorn symbol was used by the Cheshire Regiment for 72 years until 2007 when it adopted the Mercian Regiment Badge.

Now the Military Arms has decided to ensure this lives on by adopting the symbol in its new signage, an explanation of which will appear on a plaque in the porch.

Pub manager, Emma Bateman, said: "It's such a lovely theme linked in with our military connection.

"The old signage was faded and we wanted to give it a new look but keep it local."

According to history, George II was saved by members of the Cheshire Regiment at the Battle of Dettigen.

As a thank you, he picked up a sprig of oak from a tree he was sheltering under and gave it to the soldiers. Oak leaves were then worn in the presence of royalty by the Cheshire Regiment.

advertisement

The oak leaf and acorn logo will be used throughout the pub, which has undergone a considerable amount of changes since lockdown.

The garden was given a makeover and new plants and furniture added and after the second lockdown, a pergola was added with extra seating at the front of the pub.

Local tradesmen and workmen have been used for the work which is still on-going with various other stages to follow.

The pub is renowned for its five cask ales, one of which is always from a local brewery, and its growing array of 12 – 15 types of gin.

Pub goers almost get a lesson in local history as photographs from the Military Arms in days gone by are on the walls.

The pub was once owned by the Bagnall family who had links with Foden so there is a plaque on one wall showing this.

And when staff were clearing out a garage they stumbled upon some old military signage from days gone by.