AN HISTORIC pub has caused controversy after it was partly painted green.
The Blue Cap, in Sandiway, was built in 1770s and has a long history connected with Cheshire hunting and kennels.
Traditionally the pub, located on the A556 close to the iconic Round Tower, has a cream facade.
But passers-by and villages were shocked recently after owners of the Chef and Brewer pub decided to paint half of the main building green.
Cuddington and Sandiway parish councillor Robert Dickinson, who used to run the village post office before its closure, said: “I am sorry they have done that. They have detracted from the character of the building that has stood for many years.
“I’ve heard favourable things about the inside of the pub but I think the outside would look better in one colour and a paler colour rather than green.”
A statement on the village website adds: “We can say that none of the comments made have been favourable to the new colour scheme. As a well known building with an interesting history this pub is cherished by local people.”
The change in colour is part of a full internal and external refurbishment of the Blue Cap.
Deputy manager Eric Blakemore said: “The reaction to the interior refurbishment has been incredibly positive with everyone commenting on how clean and fresh it looks.
“The exterior has had a mixed reaction with some asking why we have painted it green. It has been a major talking point.”
The village’s other pub, The White Barn, received similar criticism when it was painted pink. Public opinion soon helped return the pub to its traditional white appearance.
