Award Winning Village Pubs
Dorset -
Husband and wife team Rod and Janette Lamont have between them over 30 years experience in the pub trade. They decided to strike out on their own 10 years ago by purchasing The Kings Arms in Stoborough and after making it a fantastic success, went on to buy the Saxon Arms in Stratton in 2005 and then added to the group last year with The Kings Arms at Longham, Ferndown. Rod and Janette run the Saxon Arms themselves and it has become known as one of the finest dining pubs in the county after being a finalist in Dorset local pub of the year. The pub chefs have also reached two AA rosette standard.
Rod already knew Colin Chastey of Armada Finance, but also had several trusted recommendations to contact Armada when they first bought The Kings Arms in 2008 and it was in desperate need of refurbishment. Colin quickly agreed funding for the complete fit-out. The Saxon Arms will be having a refit in January 2010 and Armada are ready to assist.
"I find Armada's traditional values for borrowing money and dealing with a face very refreshing. You have direct contact with the decision makers and the process is so simple, both of which are crucial when speed is important. Working with Armada is such an easy way of doing business compared to my experience of other lenders. Colin and MD Kirk Smith took the time to really understand what we are about and the personal communication between us is not only of great value, but gives us comfort in who we are dealing with. Knowing I don't have to worry about funding is a real weight off my shoulders."