He’s the Councillor and cabinet member who combines politics with running a successful community pub. Meet Robert Wann, the man who rubs shoulders with, and reaches for, the stars…

“A normal pub offers the usual steak and kidney pies and sirloin steaks. I wanted something unique and the restaurant is just that. We are actually the first Chinese restaurant, within a pub, to be awarded the Good Eating Guide Gold Award, which is fantastic.”

The Dunton Bassett Arms is just that. A blend of the quintessential English country tavern, with a modern twist of fine dining, Far East style. It would be the last thing expected of a community pub, but the customers just can’t get enough. Over 160 meals are served, each day, on an average Thursday, Friday and Saturday, including a slick take-away service with the punters queuing out of the door for more.

“The changes we’ve made are phenomenal; a complete refurbishment of the restaurant, an outside bar for weddings and parties and much more. It’s a huge improvement, which directly benefits the customer and the community.”

And it promises to get busier for Wann and his talented team over the coming weeks.

“This month we have Mother’s Day and Easter Sunday is on the horizon so we’re already filling up for both. Our traditional Sunday carvery is everything you would expect from a quality restaurant.”

It isn’t just Joe Public that agrees either. In recent years, the Dunton Bassett Arms has seen more than its fair share of stardom walk through the doors and stay the night, within one of the eight luxurious rooms, set to become eighteen.

“We’re currently building another ten rooms in response to popular demand. Former City stars, Matt Elliott, Gerry Taggart and Steve Walsh have all stayed here as well as Michelle Collins (Cindy from Eastenders).”

So what is the secret to the success and how can a thriving community pub maintain its appeal during uncertain economic times?

“Our blueprint is to provide excellent service and quality food, at an affordable price. We offer a selection of real cask ales and have a varied wine list, all of which is immersed within a true country pub atmosphere. Even with the current financial situation, a couple could come here and experience top quality food and drink for under £30.”

Surely with a hectic pub schedule, alongside the demands of being a Councillor, working within the cabinet, Wann must find the need to put his feet up once in a while?

“I am passionate about Leicester and Leicestershire and my dual roles compliment one another and allow me to maintain a certain level of reality to the work I do. I am lucky enough to be involved with the future of Leicestershire and the diversity of people that I meet allows me to make calculated decisions to the benefit of everyone.”

He is quick to point out that the DBA is far from a one-man show though.

“I had to find a good manager for the pub and an equally talented back-up staff. It is about trust and empowerment to people who take decisions on a day-to-day basis and they are superb.”

So, next time you settle down for a T.V. dinner, just think, you could be experiencing traditional country pub fare, fused with a touch of the Far East, at a price that won’t break the bank. Who knows, you might even spot a star at the bar.

For more information on the Dunton Bassett Arms, or to make a booking, call 01455 209786.