'Too old' licensee's time with Sheps is now up

The 67-year-old licensee who last year won the right to stay in his Shepherd Neame pub after a battle with the brewer is to retire at the end of the month.

The 3,000 locals who last year fought for Eddie Dunford to stay in the Black Horse in Telford, East Sussex, won him only a short reprieve. Following a customer petition, Sheps handed the licensee an extra 12 months in the pub after originally asking him to retire in July 2004.

He said: "I shall be saddened to go as it's been my home for 40 years. I am going to continue working. I don't want to sit around and do nothing. Having been here for so long staying was my preferred option but Sheps wants to get someone new in."

Mr Dunford said that he would keep his hand in at relief management and may take his annual music festival to other pubs in the area.

A spokeswoman for the brewer said: "We'd like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Dunford for his dedication and commitment over the years and wish him well for the future.

"We have part-sponsored the Black Horse music festival over the years and would hope to continue this and actively encourage future licensees to continue the pub's involvement in the festival."

Related articles:​

'Too old' licensee beats the age barrier (30 September 2004)

Shepherd Neame calls time on 67-year old (15 July 2004)