A countryside pub is set to unveil a majestic red deer stag masterfully crafted from willow that promises to become one of the area’s latest attractions. The Exeter Inn pub will host a celebratory event on Thursday, April 18, to unveil the large sculpture that was commissioned by Punch Pubs & Co operations manager James Farmer and head of operations Rupert Reeves.

In keeping with the countryside feel, the decision was made to replace the pub’s old signage with the impressive sculpture. Dating back hundreds of years, the coaching inn, which forms part of Punch Pubs & Co’s Management Partnership estate, lies in a popular location for tourists and walkers alike at Bampton.

Head of operations Rupert Reeves said his ambition was to bring something new to the area and replace the pub’s former signage with a statement piece of art.

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“The Exeter Inn is a fantastic countryside pub run by our brilliant management partner Johnathan Taylor,” said Rupert. “Jonathan and I were discussing ways of improving the external appeal of the pub and it was then that we discovered Kim’s work.

“Kim is a talented world leading expert in willow sculpture and has crafted many pieces for various pubs and institutions nationally. Much to our delight, she was immediately on board and on the 18th of April, we will be holding an afternoon of celebrations to unveil the stag, inviting guests old and new to join us.”

At the grand reveal, Kim, who is also a painter, medical herbalist, and tutor, will be hosting a book signing of her latest book ‘A Celebration of Willow: The Definitive Guide to Sculpture Techniques Woven with Ecology, Sustainability and Healing’, published by Aeon Books, London.

Guests are invited to attend the unveiling and book launch from 5pm and will be treated to light bites, and entertainment to include live music from a local traditional folk duo.

To conclude the evening, The Exeter Inn is offering a two-course dining offer. More information is available on the pub’s Facebook page.