Two long-serving publicans are celebrating an extraordinary milestone this year, having each spent 45 years at the heart of their communities.
It’s 45 years since Billy Moore first stepped behind the bar at The Fountain Inn in Mevagissey, and the same for Anita George at The Logan Rock Inn in Treen. Together they have dedicated nine decades to welcoming customers, supporting local causes and preserving two much-loved Cornish pubs.
For Anita, who is St Austell Brewery's longest-serving landlady, the role has always been about far more than serving food and drink.
So well known locally that she's rarely called Anita behind the bar, regulars, neighbours and visitors alike simply know her as 'Mother' - a nickname earned through decades of caring for customers, supporting neighbours and welcoming visitors to one of Cornwall's most treasured village pubs.
Known as much for her compassion as her hospitality, Anita has become a trusted figure in the local community. Whether it's serving an early-morning coffee before opening time, helping stranded motorists, supporting local charities or offering community groups a place to meet free of charge, she's always been ready to help.
"I always feel good if I've been able to help someone," said Anita.
"It's important that people who may be stressed, worried or feeling a little down know they can come in for a chat and feel welcome."
Her contribution extends far beyond the pub's walls. Over the years, Anita has helped raise more than £1 million for local causes, supported grassroots sports clubs and brought people together through countless celebrations, fundraisers and community events.
For Anita, a pub has never simply been somewhere to eat and drink.
"It's about the people," she said. "Making sure everyone feels welcome and looked after."
Meanwhile, at The Fountain Inn in Mevagissey, Billy Moore has become something of a local institution in his own right.
The former fisherman first took on the pub in 1981 and has spent the last 45 years preserving its character, charm and place at the centre of village life. Although modest about his achievement, Billy is fiercely proud of the pub he has carefully maintained over the decades.
"I've done a lot of work here with my own hands but without actually altering the pub," he said. "It's a great little pub."
Billy's determination to retain The Fountain's unique character has helped make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike, where regulars often have a pint waiting before they reach the bar and good humour is never in short supply.
After 45 years at the helm, what gives him the greatest satisfaction is seeing generations of local families pass through the pub's doors.
"The girls who first worked with me have had their daughters work here and now their grandchildren," he said. "It's been fun."
Kevin Georgel, CEO of St Austell Brewery, said:
"To have one publican dedicate 45 years to a pub is extraordinary. To have two celebrating that milestone in the same year is truly exceptional."
"Billy and Anita have devoted their working lives to their communities and have helped make their pubs the beating heart of village life. While their stories are different, they share the same commitment to people, hospitality and creating places where everyone feels welcome."
"Anita's compassion and generosity have made her a much-loved figure in Treen, while Billy's dedication to preserving the character and spirit of The Fountain Inn has made him a legend in Mevagissey. The impact they have both had over the past 45 years extends far beyond their pubs."
"Everyone at St Austell Brewery is incredibly grateful for everything they have contributed and we are proud to celebrate this remarkable milestone with them both."
