THE landlords of a much-loved Whitchurch pub have spoken of their sadness to be leaving.

Jean Wollaston has run the Cock and Greyhound in Bargates with her husband, Rob, for the last four years.

The couple will be having a leaving party on Saturday, February 11 before officially leaving on Thursday, February 16.

Jean and Rob live in Northwich and she spoke about the wonderful time she has had in Whitchurch.

She added: "It is very sad. We have put it off for a long time because we love the people.

"When we first came here, we were outsiders. It was quite a big move for us really.

"People have been so good and so nice to us, it is such a lovely town."

Jean explained that their daughter going to school in Northwich and the time they've spent travelling to Whitchurch influenced their decision.

She said: "The travelling and the distance doesn't quite work when running a pub. Running a pub is pretty much 24/7 these days. You have got to be open all hours.

"That's the reason we are leaving, it is for no other reason than that.

"If we could stay here forever I would."

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Jean praised staff and customers for their support over the four years she has spent in Whitchurch.

She explained: "I loved every minute of it and I love the people of the town.

"The staff have been amazing.

"All of our customers are just brilliant. They looked after us and cared about us. They make sure that if we are not here at any point the pub is looked after.

"There have been a lot of tears shed over the last few days.

"It is one of those where we plan to move on to new pastures. But I have not ruled out returning in the future if circumstances change."

Jean hopes the pub will continue to be supported and spoke about the importance of traditional pubs.

She added: "I hope everyone supports it so it can continue to be the pub we have managed to build over the last four years.

"So when we get the new tenants in, hopefully they will continue the good work and keep the pub alive.

"So many pubs are in so much danger of closing.

"For many people, locals are the only place they can go and meet other people and have chat.

"I just find it is really important to try and keep them alive."