Colchester landlords pull their final pints at the Victoria Inn

Sheena Valentine and Andy Pilgrim have been at the helm of The Victoria Inn, in North Station Road, for more than a decade having opened in December 2010.

Over the last 12 years, the popular watering hole has received a host of accolades, including North Essex’s Best Real Ale Pub and Cider Pub of the Year.

The free house, which many feared would be turned into flats before Sheena and Andy took over, was also once named the best pub in the whole of East Anglia.

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Despite their success, the couple have now decided to call it a day and recently celebrated their retirement by enjoying one final night with their loyal punters.

In a joint statement, Sheena and Andy said: “We’d like to say how truly humbled we are by all the wonderful posts and messages we have had regarding our retirement.

“We have enjoyed the most wonderful 12 years at the Vic and have made many good friends along the way.

“Our decision to call it a day was not an easy one, but it was the right one for us.”

During Sheena and Andy’s premiership, the Victoria Inn has prided itself on being a traditional pub, putting customers and top quality tipples above everything else.

Affectionately known as the Vic to its regulars, the establishment will now be taken over by Richard Taylor, who currently works at the watering hole.

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Sheena and Andy added: “We are leaving the Vic in the safest of hands, Richard Taylor, who has more than earned his stripes over the last few years.

“We are absolutely sure he will take the Vic from strength to strength, and we urge you to support him as you have supported us.

“For now, we have a lot to do in our new home in Portugal, so we bid you farewell, but hopefully not goodbye. Much love, Sheena and Andy.”

To find out more information about the Victoria Inn visit victoriainncolchester.co.uk.