TIME was finally called in November for a couple at a pub in Westbury-on-Trym. Elaine and Billy Monaghan decided, after 21 years at The Mouse on Waters Lane, that it was time for a rest.
Having been in the pub trade for many years, the couple have moved to Clevedon to enjoy a quieter pace of life. They have handed over the reins to two new owners, Izzy and Hannah, who have vowed to keep much of the pub the same, with all the staff being retained.
“One thing that won’t be changing is the Thursday night quiz, which has been running for 26 or 27 years”, said Elaine. “The locals requested to keep it going as it is one of our most popular evenings”.
Situated at the top of the hill, the multi-award-winning pub garden has wonderful views overlooking Henbury and the Blaise estate, but it is the community feel to the pub that Billy and Elaine will miss most of all. Over the years, regulars have become friends, with connections spanning generations, hosting wedding and christening parties and funeral wakes, often within the same families.
“They are a good bunch and all look after each other”, said Elaine, explaining how locals helped with their move to Clevedon as they do not drive. She went on to describe the many local groups, including SusWot and St Peter’s Hospice groups, who come in regularly, knowing they will get a warm welcome.
Many former staff returned for Elaine and Billy’s leaving do “I feel like a second mother to many of them,” said Elaine,. Asked what she thought was most important in the job, Elaine’s view was simple: “Listening to customers, knowing what they like to eat and drink, and being known for good service.”
Over the years, the couple saw many changes to the area – the older demographic being replaced by families and younger couples. Where many pubs in the area have been closing, The Mouse has been busier than ever since Covid, with new people moving into the area and community groups being formed.
But now Elaine and Billy are looking forward to some time off, visiting family and taking time to decide what to do next.
“We’ve been doing this for many years, seven days a week,” said Elaine. “Billy is coming up to retirement age and we need a break. Mind you, after a couple of weeks, I’ll probably be bored and be looking for something else to do!”.
Maybe their friends from The Mouse will venture out to Clevedon to join them for a drink.