A Wiltshire pub celebrated a landmark this New Year as its five staff members hit 100 years of combined service.

The end of 2022 had special significance for the British Lion, on Estcourt Street in Devizes, as its long serving staff marked a century behind the bar.

While the pub’s newest recruit Sam is just a few years into the job, the longest serving staff member, Mike Dearing, has managed the British Lion since 1993.

He has managed to retain staff members Marcella, Claire and Sharon for over 20 years each.

“This is a people’s industry and we’ve got a good team here”, Mike said. “We try and look after our team and make sure they enjoy their jobs because if they enjoy it, it doesn’t feel like they’re coming to work.

"If you’re not enjoying it, it comes across.”

Mike believes that the continuity of staff has helped them to retain their regulars.

He added: “Our trade is pretty consistent because we like to emphasise what we are and what we stand for.

“Continuity is one of our strong points, you know where you stand with us.”

One regular who agrees is Mike Lisle. He said: “They’re a terrific team and the service is remarkable. When you walk into the pub they all know you and they know what you drink, they don’t even ask they just pour your pint.

“A lot of work goes on behind the scenes and it’s very much appreciated. It’s the only real pub left in Devizes, there’s no telly, there’s no food, they just serve good beer and it’s a friendly atmosphere.”

While the last few years have been difficult for the hospitality industry, Mike is positive about the trajectory his pub is on for 2023.

“There’s light at the end of the tunnel”, he said. “The last two Christmases have been affected by Covid-19, but we’ve been open every single day since April 2021 now so it’s getting better.

“I would say things are looking up. We’ve got a good solid base to build on and great regulars so we’re very grateful to them.”

He has been working in the pub trade since the 1980s and admitted he does not know how much longer he will carry on such a physical job, but he is showing no signs of stopping as he enters his 30th year at the British Lion.