MP GRAHAM Evans has been shown how licensees Chris and Vicky Lane have been pulling in the customers at The Coachman since taking over a year ago.

Trade at the Hartford pub, which is opposite the railway station, had been in decline for some time until the couple took it on at the start of 2013.

Thanks to their hard work and a joint £270,000 investment with Star Pubs and Bars, Heineken’s pub division, Chris and Vicky have tripled trade since reopening.

Mr Evans, the MP for Weaver Vale, took his turn behind the bar to find out how the couple have turned around the pub’s fortunes.

“The Coachman has returned to its rightful place in the heart of Hartford’s wonderful community,” said Mr Evans.

“I am delighted to support The Coachman, and was delighted to learn about the investment from Star Pubs and Bars and the hard work of Vicky and Chris to revitalise the pub.

“I was especially impressed by the way they have adapted to modern technology and diversified their business.”

Chris and Vicky have upgraded the kitchen, introduced wi-fi, and offer coffee and snacks as well as lunchtime and evening meals.

They recently upgraded the six en-suite bedrooms and added a self-catering apartment.

Chris Lane said: “The Coachman had become somewhat tired over the years, and appealed to only a small number of customers. It needed an injection of cash to bring it up to date, broaden its appeal and offer the comfort and standards customers increasingly expect.”