Emma and Kate have sent their thoughts on the Masons ahead of the reopening.

"Just over 60 years ago - in the mid 1960s - Ruby, Evan, Peter and Brian moved from Wesley Way in Devauden to The Masons Arms.

"Many villagers and visitors will have fond memories of Ruby - a much-loved, warm and indomitable landlady who welcomed generations through the door for a pint, a packet of ready salted crisps and, if you were lucky, a pickled egg. The pub became much more than a business; it was a centre of village life where friendships were formed, milestones celebrated and memories made.

"Following Ruby's death in 1987, the pub passed to her sons, Peter and Brian. Brian became the familiar face behind the bar, while Peter worked behind the scenes. With the support of family, friends and loyal customers, the pub flourished and significant refurbishment works began.

"Brian's sudden death in January 2010 was a devastating loss to his family, friends, the village and the pub itself. The years that followed were understandably extremely difficult and emotional for everyone connected with the business and the pub eventually closed in November 2011.

"Although Peter had hoped to complete the renovation project and reopen, circumstances changed and made that increasing difficult. Throughout this time one thing remained constant: a shared desire to see the building and its place in village life preserved. Various options were explored and eventually in 2022 the property was put up for sale. A number of viewings and discussions with interested parties followed but the scale of the work required proved a significant obstacle – not forgetting the impact of COVID and the challenges faced by the hospitality sector. 

"It was always deeply saddening to everyone to see such an important village landmark standing empty and falling into disrepair. Following Peter's death in August 2023, responsibility for the property passed to us (Peter’s daughters). Working closely with David Russell and the team at Powell's Rural, we continued to pursue the search for a new owner and a sale was finally secured in December 2025.

"The story of The Masons Arms has always been about community. Whatever our individual memories of the past, we hope that the reopening of the pub offers an opportunity for everyone connected with its history to look forward and to unite in bringing village life back through those doors once again.

"We personally wish the new owners - Jon and Christine Straw – every success as they take on the challenge of restoring and reopening this much-loved village pub.

"We hope that Ruby, Evan, Peter and Brian would all be raising a glass to this next chapter.

"Cheers to The Masons Arms!"

Best wishes

Emma & Kate