Regulars at a pub in Kidlington have paid tribute to landlords who have served customers for more than a quarter of a century.

In January, a presentation was made to Gerry and Chris McGrath at the Kings Arms pub at The Moors, Kidlington, by the local branch of Oxford CAMRA.

The couple received their certificate from Tony Goulding, chairman of the branch, and secretary Steve Lawrence in recognition of more than 25 years behind the bar.

READ MORE: Pub landlords toasted for loyal service

Now the couple have retired and one of the regulars has thanked them for their efforts.

Elaine Shelton said: "I have known Chris and Gerry for 35 years.

"Gerry came out of the RAF and went to run the pub over 27 years ago.

"They have both been such a big part of the community - Chris delivering freshly cooked meals for those that are housebound, both supported raising pub events for charities, Gerry taking locals to hospital appointments, the list is endless.

"They will both be so missed, but it is time for them to retire and relax.

"This is what a local pub is all about, bringing the community together, and they certainly did that."

Oxford Mail: Chris and Gerry McGrath

Mr and Mrs McGrath have moved to a nearby flat in the village and are looking forward to spending some time travelling and catching up with family.

Mr McGrath said: "We will have a good rest and spend some time travelling and visiting family - I'm an Irish Jock."

He added that the pub, which is privately owned, would now be run by Adam Manning.

"I think the pub will only be closed for a couple of weeks while Adam gets ready to start," he added.

The presentation from CAMRA in January couldn't take place on the actual anniversary date due to previous Covid restrictions during the pandemic.

Oxford Mail: The Kings Arms in Kidlington

CAMRA said Mr and Mrs McGrath had been a pillar of the local community and praised the latter for providing home cooked, locally sourced food and wholesome meals for customers and local care establishments during their residency at 4 The Moors.

Graham Wareham, a regular at the pub, said in January: "Gerry and Chris are planning to retire in June but the Kings Arms, a local's free house, will continue to thrive through the support of the multitude of locals who come in, sometimes while supposedly walking their dogs, to sample the good range of real ale, malt whisky and fine wines."

While the Kings Arms is to remain open, drinkers in other parts of the county have not been so lucky and pubs have remained closed while new management is being sought, due to the cost of living crisis.

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

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