Sandra Gummery

Listen to the interview

Summary

Based on an interview recorded on 3 June 2013. It reflects the interviewee’s life and memories at that time.

Sandra Gummery was born at The Folly on Common Hill, Fownhope, and has spent all of her life deeply embedded in village life. Her parents took over the New Inn in 1963, with her mother running the kitchen and bar single-handedly while her father worked full-time as a transport manager before joining her each evening. Sandra took over the pub herself 20 years ago, continuing the family legacy.

Her childhood memories are fond and full of village camaraderie—playing on building sites, walking the woods, and shopping at Baylis’s and Pocknell’s. She recalls school under the strict Mrs Payne, brownies, and a vibrant youth club run by John Jones Sr., who was a pillar of community activity.

Sandra has worn many hats, from secretary to wages clerk, and has always remained active behind the bar. The New Inn has played host to countless village events—from sports teams and club walks to funerals and festive meals. Sandra has adapted with the times, offering curry and pie nights, open mic events, and warm welcomes to walkers and ramblers.

Her love of horses is equally central: she rides several times a week and has travelled the country showing and riding endurance. A memorable family donkey once caused pub disputes by drinking customers’ beer!

Sandra sources local produce wherever possible, cooks from scratch, and enjoys strong support from loyal staff—many with deep local roots. Her pub has remained a constant social hub, flexible in licensing and full of stories and characters, from cribbage players to a customer known only as Tipperary.

Her warmth, humour, and sense of continuity shine through. As one interviewer remarked, the New Inn is the true village pump—and Sandra its steady keeper.