Mr. Ernie Welch
Ernie Welch bought the Old Star in 2009 after running The Rifleman pub for many years. Ernie has been part of the Winsford community for many years having previously helped run Winsford United Football Club and he has been at the forefront of many community and charitable ventures. Ernie comes from a family in County Roscommon, Ireland, but has lived in Winsford most of his life. Ernie is a family man, living with his wife of many years, Mary and he has three grown up children and three grandchildren.

Renovations and Improvements
Ernie immediately started on a programme of improvements and renovation, so although the pub retains its traditional outer appearance, the interior is modern, light and comfortable with a cosy, wood burning fire for those cold evenings.

The Fire of 2019
In August 2019, there was a fire in the upstairs kitchen caused by a faulty tumble dryer. This destroyed the whole of the first floor and the water caused severe damage to both bars. With his typical tenacity, Ernie started work to rebuild the upstairs and get the bars back to their best condition using skilled local tradespeople. The Old Star was back! Better and stronger than ever with a VIP roof garden added for that special occasion.

The Star After Covid 19
At the end of 2019, the global pandemic of Covid 19 brought the world to a standstill. The Star was forced to close by the rules of the Government. Now in late spring of 2021, the Old Star is once again on the road to recovery and hoping to be fully open as normal by the end of June 2021.