I don't know why I didn't think of that! As a result of your comment, I have checked my extensive file of innkeepers in the area and I have found a man of that exact name who was an innkeeper at Esh - the next village along the road - at least from 1911 - 1914. But it is still possible that he was at this pub for part of 1911.
Does the census record his address at that time?