RUNNING a pub is an increasing challenge as landlords battle against cheap supermarket foods, high staff turnover and problems in the hospitality sector.

But for entrepreneurial landlord Kelly Dodsworth, the benefits have outweighed the challenges and this week she is celebrating two years as land lord of The Cross Keys pub in Rowde.

Under her care the Wadworth pub is thriving, with a string of Wadsworth and Tripadvisor awards alongside runner up prize in the Devizes constituency best local pub awards in 2017.

Ms Dodsworth has been in the hospitality industry for 15 years and set about the task of running her own pub by the time she reached 30. At just 28 she took over The Cross Keys and in two years has transformed it into a bustling hub that is used by people of all ages to eat and drink in.

She puts her success down to her loyal team of 12 staff who have been part of her vision to create a traditional pub, kitted out with pools tables, darts boards, real ales and tasty pub grub.

Ms Dodsworth said: “When the pub is full of people of all ages chatting to each other and having a good evening I feel really proud of what we have achieved. "

The pub hosts regular fitness sessions in the skittles alley, craft clubs and recently held a meeting to discuss how Rowde could become a dementia friendly community.

She continued: “It is definitely a struggle to run a pub, more so now than in the past. The whole hospitality sector is still recovering from the recession. Supermarkets are making it easier for people to buy food and drink at home and we are constantly working to keep our prices reasonable to keep people coming.

"But we are always trying to keep moving forward and it is no doubt down to my regulars who come in and give the pub such a good atmosphere.”

“People are certainly more aware of what they are ating so we make sure we can cater for everyone. If someone comes in with allergies we will create a special dish for them and we have gluten free, vegan, dairy free and vegetarian options now.”

The pub is open everyday and can be found on Rowde High Street.

Tracey Sharp, of Wadworth said: “After 2 years at the Cross Keys, Kelly continues her focus on making the pub a success. Last year Kelly won the ‘Best Neighbourhood Pub’ at the Wadworth Best of the Best Awards.

This is an outstanding achievement and well deserved by Kelly and her team.”