Landlord of iconic Tooting pub reveals what it's like to run successful establishment for 22 years

The landlord of The Ramble Inn has spoken to Nub News about how it feels to run a successful pub for over 20 years.

The pub celebrated its twenty second year of serving the community over the weekend - albeit with no party due to coronavirus restrictions.

The Mitcham Road pub, which was labeled 'the definition of community' by MP Rosenna Khan, has amassed a dedicated customer base and iconic status by residents.

James (Jimmy) Crowe, landlord of The Ramble Inn, told Nub News:

"My father came to Tooting in 1958 from Ireland.

"Me and my siblings have lived all of our lives in SW17 so we know a lot of people in Tooting.

"When we are serving Tooting residents we always know someone they know and we can tell people about the history of Tooting."

Jimmy's father, who first opened the pub twenty two years ago, has been in the trade for fifty eight years.

He still offers advice and help to Jimmy when he needs it.

"It's very good to have all those years of experience to fall back on," Jimmy told Nub news.

"If it's not broken, don't fix it"

Jimmy has seen a lot change over the course of his life in Tooting, but he believes that keeping things the same behind the bar is a recipe for success.

"If it is not broken don't fix it," Jimmy said.

"In twenty years we have seen so many pubs change hands and so many managers - it's very important to have good staff and look after them."

The Ramble Inn has kept the same manager for eighteen years and have had their day manager for nine.

"As an owner I am hands on every day which you need to do if you want to be around for another twenty two years," Jimmy continued.

"It ensures the customers are looked after and the staff as well."

Tooting is a special place

Jimmy has created something special where he was born and grew up - it's something he's immensely proud of.

Jimmy said: "It's great to have a good business in the area where you were born and live.

"Tooting has a great community, great people and some good characters."

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