From the catwalk to running historic Sandbach pub, trend-setting couple raise their glass
By Deborah Bowyer 26th Mar 2022
Two fashion models are starting a new chapter in their lives after taking over as the new landlord and landlady of Sandbach's oldest building which is a pub.
Francesa Bell and Wes Cotton are opening the doors at the historic Lower Chequer today (Saturday) as the new faces behind the bar.
The pub, dating back to 1570, is thought to be the oldest building in the town and is named after the chequer board.
Th Lower Chequer closed in early January for a refit but now the doors will be firmly open tonight when the glamorous duo welcome customers old and new to the Joules pub.
History has it that the 'chequered board' was used to help educate customers to count their money, and the landlords of the pub centuries ago were the money lenders to the locals.
Sandbach Nub News told in December here . how the Lower Chequer was having new tenants.
Wes, a former professional rugby player for Wigan and London Broncos, said: "It's such a great pub and when it came up we just jumped at the chance.
"Sandbach is such a beautiful town and a great place to live and work."
His partner, Francesca, is equally excited about reopening the famous pub set just off the town's famous Cobbles near The Crosses.
"I've travelled all over the world with my modelling career but this is such a happy day for us both," said Francesca.
Francesca has modelled for numerous top fashion houses, including Vivienne Westwood, as well as appearing in TV commercials and adverts.
But despite both gracing the fashion pages headlining various fashion houses, running a pub is nothing new to either Wes or Francesca.
Wes, who like his partner Francesca, was signed by top modelling agency, Models One, has previously worked in the business.
The 44-year-old former rugby player owned and ran the Cotton Club wine bar in Wigan while Francesca's mum ran a pub near Hyde in Manchester when was young.
"We hope our customers like the new-look pub. We're really pleased with how it looks and can't wait to welcome people back into the Lower Chequer. It's a great atmosphere," the couple said.
Good luck to Wes and Francesca from Sandbach Nub News in their new venture. We hope it's a roaring success.
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