His career in the pub trade began in 1992 at the Liden, just a stone’s throw from where he lived at the time.
After running the Liden and also taking on relief work across the Arkell’s pub estate, Honeyman briefly left the industry for a role in sales. However, he quickly realised how much he missed working in the pub trade.
“I asked the tied trade director at that time, to let me know if anything came up,” he said. “Then Margaret Leech got in touch and said I’d be a great fit for the Swiss Chalet, a fantastic community pub. She was right. I haven’t looked back since.”
True hub
Originally built as the new Carpenters Arms in 1964, the pub was later refurbished and became known as the Swiss Chalet.
Over the past quarter-century, Honeyman has made the pub a true hub for the local community. He and his customers have raised over £200,000 for charities through countless fundraising events. The pub is also home to the Swindon Youth Darts League, which meet at the pub activity every Monday night.
“I absolutely love it here. I never want to retire,” he said.
“My target was always to reach 25 years and I’m so proud to have done that. You wouldn’t believe I was the quiet kid at school because I took to running pubs like a duck to water. This is more than a job, it’s my life.”
25-year landmark
He admitted there have been many changes in the trade with customer habits evolving.
“The community keeps me going. I’m really proud of the Swiss Chalet and everything we’ve achieved together,” he said.
James Arkell, Chairman of Arkell’s Brewery, added: “Isn’t it wonderful that we can celebrate 25 years of a landlord like John? It’s people like John who bring a pub to life. It hasn’t got any easier for landlords in recent years, and with so many changes in the trade, to see John still loving it after all this time really deserves celebration. 25 years is a real landmark.”
The licensee received a visit from the Arkell family and directors with a presentation. They also raised a glass in celebration of his long service.