The Faces Behind the Bar

Meet the Team


Pull up a seat and say hello. Here's who you'll find keeping the pints flowing and the chat lively.

Chris Evenden behind the bar in a Hillend Tavern polo shirt

Bar Staff · Since October 2018

Chris Evenden

Our longest-serving bar staff, Chris keeps the drinks flowing, the conversations lively and the pub vibes immaculate.

Behind the Bar

The Service. His speciality is a Spicy Bloody Mary, and he pours a mean pint of ale.

The Playlist. Armed with an eclectic music taste, he's the mastermind behind the perfect pub soundtrack.

Off the Clock

The Guitars. When he's not pulling pints, Chris is usually practising, tuning or talking about guitars.

The Crew. He spends his downtime with his wife, Kat, and their two legendary Jack Russells, Star and Hugo, and loves to potter about in his tardis-like garden shed.

Next time you're at the bar, say hello, and ask him about his latest guitar project.

Lesley-Anne Mathieson holding the CAMRA Fife Pub of the Year 2026 certificate behind the bar

Bar Staff · Since June 2021

Lesley-Anne Mathieson

The powerhouse keeping everything, and everyone, in order at the Hillend Tavern.

Behind the Bar

The Cyclone. Lesley-Anne loves cleaning everything in sight. If it isn't nailed down, it will be moved, thrown away or filed.

The Pitch. She runs on pure efficiency; when applying, she famously gave us a literal list of reasons why she was perfect for the job.

The Character. With a strict no-nonsense policy, we definitely don't mess with her.

Off the Clock

The Stories. She has a great sense of humour and a vault of fabulous tales from her life in Orkney and Aberdeen.

The Pups. A massive dog lover, she'll always pause her cleaning checklist to fuss over any four-legged regulars, when she isn't walking the hind legs off her own cocker spaniel, Ollie.

Keep your glass secure, pull up a stool, and get ready for some world-class tavern chat.

Jo Daley behind the bar collecting glasses

Bar Staff · Since 2025

Jo Daley

Bringing the glamour, golf trophies and brilliant banter to the Hillend Tavern.

Behind the Bar

The Newest Star. Joining the team in 2025, Jo has elevated the tavern with a touch of glamour and downright cheek.

The Service. She delivers wonderful service packed with a great sense of humour and quick-witted banter.

The Vibe. Always up for a giggle, she makes sure both our long-time regulars and brand-new customers feel right at home.

Off the Clock

The Golfer. When she's not pouring pints, Jo is a serious competitor on the green, regularly playing and winning golf competitions across Fife and Edinburgh.

The Pride. Her world revolves around her three beautiful kids, her ultimate pride and joy, along with her Frenchie, Bobbie, who keeps her on her toes.

Pull up a stool, get ready for a laugh, and ask Jo about her latest winning scorecard.

Your Local

Come and Say Hello


There's always a warm welcome and a friendly face behind the bar. Pop in and make yourself at home.

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