After successfully qualifying in Hotel Management, the Lamb and Flag's new Landlord James Lay took his career on a slightly different course. He spent two very happy years as a Redcoat Entertainer at Butlins in Bognor, which then led to a very successful 12 year career at sea, working as Cruise Director for Princess Cruises. As head of entertainment within the hotel department, James has travelled the entire world with Princess and he has been involved in the successful launch of the last eight brand new 5 star ships. He is thrilled to be back at home, on dry land and is so proud to take on this new challenge as "Master of the House" at the Lamb and Flag..
Paul Lay 'Father of the House'
Local Farmer's son, Paul Lay has been a successful publican and hotelier in the Oxfordshire area for over 35 years. Paul was born in Oxford, raised in Hagbourne and has always been a huge Oxford United supporter. He and his wife Chalisa are currently running 'The Bell' in Wantage' which he will continue to run and will be a sister product of the Lamb and Flag
25 years ago ..
25 Years ago Paul and Christine Lay (James' parents) left the Lamb and Flag, after successfully running it for many years. They lived above the pub with their two young boys James and Edward Lay, who at the time where only 7 and 4 years of age. As you can see the Lamb and Flag has played an important part in our family history and we want to re introduce the community spirit and high standard quality service into this outstanding Oxfordshire public house. First Day at School! James has a picture of himself, hung proudly in 'Dudley's Bar' of his first day at school with the Lamb and Flag in the background! Paul and his eldest son James are taking the pub back, giving it a fresh new look, adding an outstanding new Gastronomic Pub Menu and authentic Thai Menu.
Landlord Dirty Dudley
I am sure many local people will remember the Lamb and Flag which was once run by Dirty Dudley, who was a famous local landlord. The reason people remember him is because he was a character, who was loved by the locals and was the centre of the community, and now please welcome to the stage the new, younger version of Dudley, 'Master of the House James Lay'. He and his highly trained and motivated new team will bring this Pub and Restaurant back to life, James promises to offer quality food, served in a classic, contemporary setting with excellent service and value for money. Paul and James want to pay tribute to the legend Dirty Dudley by renaming the bar within the Lamb and Flag 'Dudley's Bar'!
