THE GUV'NOR Peter Gatling

Use professionals and pay proper wages. These are just two of the lessons the licensee of the Merry Harriers in Clayhidon, Devon, has learned after two years in

the trade

I cannot believe that it is nearly two years since we entered this fabulous trade. I've enjoyed every minute (well, almost!).

Having spent nearly 20 years in the rarefied and ego-driven world of IT and enjoyed a leafy existence in the Royal County of Berkshire, to uproot my home, family and profession in one fell swoop was a risky and, some would say, foolish thing to do. But we have loved it.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

People often ask me what I have learned about this venerable trade.

The good aspect is the people - staff, customers, suppliers and friends. The locals welcomed us with open arms, even though you need to have lived around this part of the Devon and Somerset border for three generations to become accepted as a local. If you keep them happy, they will keep you happy.

The bad is the impact on family life - my wife and children have been wonderfully supportive, but I do miss our time together most weekends.

The ugly is the way that I see some other publicans treating their customers, staff and business.

Have pride in yourself, your work, your staff and your profession.

Advice for licensees

For all those considering a move into the trade, I give you the three "Rs":

1 Research - do your research thoroughly: what type of pub to choose, and where?

2 Risk - be clear about your attitude to risk: don't over-borrow and leave enough for yourself to live on.

3 Rigour - be rigorous in all you do: use professionals and pay them proper wages. Don't scrimp and then expect them to work hard. What you put into your business will determine exactly what you can expect to get back.

You will know when you find what you're looking for. And remember to visit your local pub - you never know what you could learn.