New manager, big first weekend: the Phoenix Tap in Whitley Bay starts a new chapter

There's a new name in charge at The Phoenix Tap on Hillhead Road in Whitley Bay. The pub confirmed last week that Amanda has taken over as manager, and regulars piled into the Facebook comments to wish her well, ChronicleLive reports.

She isn't easing in. Her first weekend was lined up as a busy one, with fans heading in for England v Croatia in the Nations League, plus drinks deals, games, karaoke and live entertainment.

It comes in a mixed year for pubs in the area. The Gold Medal in Gateshead and The Newton in Benton have become Hickory's Smokehouses, and The Green in Wardley has done well since rebranding as Fitzgerald's. Others have shut for good, with businesses still squeezed by higher utility bills and changing going-out habits.

So what for your shift? Taking charge, whether it's a whole pub or your first Saturday as shift lead, often starts with a busy night you didn't plan. A few things that help in week one: - Learn the regulars' names, and listen before you change anything - Brief the team before a big match: who's on the bar, who's on glasses, when the rush will hit - Pick one thing to do really well, like the drinks deal, rather than five at once - Keep posting what's on, because people watch a new manager closely

The first week sets the tone, so make it a calm one.