LANDLADY Anne West was treated to a musical farewell to mark her retirement after almost two decades running a popular village pub.

Anne is the landlady at The Crown Inn in Lower Peover, and is due to pull her final pint this Sunday after 18 years in charge.

To mark her retirement regulars packed into the pub on Friday to present her with a number of gifts.

Also there were members of Mereside Brass, who performed a number of songs for Anne to wish her all the best, including ‘Congratulations’.

Band members call in for a drink at the pub after rehearsals on Friday evening at Plumley Village Hall, and have performed carols at the pub on the Friday before Christmas for the past few years.

“I have enjoyed the past 18 years, but it is hard work and it has got to the stage where I didn’t think I would be able to carry on any longer,” said Anne, who is recovering after breaking her right wrist.

“The pub was full on Friday evening, and it was really good to see Mereside Brass, who played a number of songs.

“I was given a fantastic cake with a picture of the pub on it, a bouquet of tulips and cards wishing me well.

“I would like to thank all of my excellent staff, especially Belinda and Jacky, who are always willing to help.”

The photograph of Anne with members of the staff was taken by Mike Godfrey, who has been a regular at the pub for about 40 years.

“It’s the end of an era for the pub with Anne retiring,” said Mike, 68, who lives in Allostock.

“The Crown is my local, and I would like to wish Anne well in her retirement.

"Anne always made time for all her regular customers and was always ready for a laugh and a joke.

She was always ready to listen to people stories and knew all her regular customers by name. She was also an excellent chef."

Mereside Brass rehearse at Plumley Village Hall at 8pm on Friday, and between 15 and 20 members performed at Anne’s farewell celebrations.

Anyone who is interested in joining the band is welcome to come along to a rehearsal, or can visit meresidebrass.co.uk