Chain set to drive The Machine to further success

BUSINESSMAN TAKES ON PUB AFTER REFURB BY OWNERS AMID TOWN IMPROVEMENTS

- By OSCAR FISHER

A Derbyshire bar and restaurant has been taken over by a pub chain, with hopes of building on its success with an experienced new owner at the helm.

Local businessman Howard Thacker has taken over The Machine Inn, a much-loved former bank in the heart of Ashbourne.

It sits in St John’s Street, which has been subject to a huge redevelopment project throughout 2025, prompting tough trade in the town over the last few months.

But all eyes are on the future as the Ashbourne Reborn project comes to a close - and Mr Thacker’s Berkley Inns group hopes to end the year on a high.