WARM-messages of thanks have been flooding in for a much-loved couple who have been pouring pints at a popular town centre pub in Cirencester for nearly three decades.

David and Carolyn Watson ran the Wheatsheaf in Cricklade Street for just over 29 years - and have lived there for 24 years. 

The couple took the decision to hand back the keys after David decided to retire.

 

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: David and Carolyn Watson after handing back the keys to the Wheatsheaf pub in CirencesterDavid and Carolyn Watson after handing back the keys to the Wheatsheaf pub in Cirencester

Before running the Wheatsheaf, David ran the Three Compasses - now Somewhere Else - and took part in other business ventures.

David and his family would like to express their gratitude to the people of Cirencester for their support over the years.

“Thank you to the wonderful people of Cirencester and beyond who have made it a fantastic, incredible, unforgettable experience in the Wheatsheaf,” he said.

“It pains me to say goodbye to our home but like we all know, everyone’s journey must come to an end.

“One of the highlights of our time was during New Year’s Eve just before the turn of the millennium.

“Everyone was wondering whether the internet would crash or the world would end, while we held a celebration and had a fantastic time.

“At the pub we always showed massive football and rugby tournaments. 

“I have fond memories of when England beat Australia in the 2003 Rugby World Cup (hosted in Sydney, Australia) during the early hours, which we showed. 

“It was also fantastic to open early during the 2002 FIFA World Cup which was hosted in South Korea and Japan.

“That was tremendous as people came in, watched the games and then went off to work.

“We are amazed by the kind comments that have been made. 

“When you are doing something for the community you don’t realise the influence you have.

“We want to give our heartfelt thanks for all of the kind comments over the last few weeks.

“We would also like to thank everyone for their support over the 30 years."

Regulars and friends have been sending their thanks to the owners of their pub. 

Tim Wainright met his partner in Wheatsheaf 18 years ago.

“We are getting married next month so I want to thank you for everything and wish you good luck for the future," he said. 

Simon Batchelor from Cirencester said it was the end of an era. 

“The Wheatsheaf was the first stop on any night out in Cirencester," he said. 

“I also wanted to thank the owners for their support of our football team the Exiles over the years.

“The Wheatsheaf was the first stop on any night out in Cirencester.”

Stephanie Amer who lives in Cirencester said that the owners always made people feel welcome.

“You will all be missed by everyone. 

Finally Jennifer Weston who used to visit the pub regularly said she wished the owners much happiness for the future. 

“I have some great memories of the pub that I will always remember.”