Bidders thirst for Flossie's old pub

It was the end of an era for villagers on the Shropshire border when Britain's oldest publican died.

Now one of the UK's last "parlour pubs", the Sun Inn at Leintwardine, which was run by redoubtable landlady Flossie Lane for 74 years, is to be sold at auction on August 27.

The listed property, a large 18th century cottage built of stone, is being offered for sale, following Miss Lane's death last month.

Born during the First World War, Miss Lane, who was one of seven children, took over the family business with her brother Charlie in 1935.

When he died in 1985, she continued single-handed.

Increasing frailty in recent years prompted loyal regulars to run the pub for her - under her watchful eye. The same volunteers have kept the traditions alive under a temporary licence since June.

One of its characteristics is that there has never been a till, simply a row of jam jars. Now a change in ownership could signal the end of an era as a devoted community core waits for the outcome of the auction.

Praised

Ideally, they want the pub to be bought by people who prize its survival and are willing to continue its tradition and foster its unique culture.

"I am sure that is what she would have liked," said Miss Lane's niece Wendy Lane.

The pub was praised by TV presenter Jeremy Paxman, who said it was "straight out of the pages of Thomas Hardy".

Fast "pub grub" was not a feature of the place; pickled eggs and crisps being the staple. But the beer drinking here, with or without snacks, never led to trouble.

Hard liquor was not on the menu. As the teetotal Miss Lane once said: "They are all good people here - I won't have no rough."

Neither did she like men with beards. Once, during a late night lock-in, she answ- ered the door to a bewhisk-ered stranger who wanted to join in the fun. "No, you can't," she said. "We are closed for tax purposes."

Now the pub, which has a £250,000 to £300,000 guide price, will go to the highest bidder.

The auction, by Jackson International, is at 6.30pm on August 27 at the Luctonians Sports Club, Kingsland. Details on (01568) 610600.

By Sophie Bignall