A Leeds pub landlady who has served generations of families across the city is to pull her last pint after 32 incredible years.
Michelle Dwan, licensee at the Victoria Hotel will be retiring at the end of the month, after more than three decades running the beloved community pub. The pub, owned by Admiral Taverns, will be hosting a farewell party on Saturday, January 28 to celebrate her service.
Michelle took over the pub in August 1990, along with the help of her partner Malcolm. They have made it a landmark in the small east Leeds village and over the years it has become beloved by many people in the area.
Read More: Horror as car ploughs into Leeds fish and chip shop with residents evacuated from homes
This month, Michelle was visited by Admiral Taverns’ Chief Executive, Chris Jowsey and Business Development Manager, Andy Longley. She received a certificate of achievement to recognise her outstanding achievement and service to the pub.
Saying how grateful she was to be a part of the business for so long, Michelle said: "I can’t put into words how amazing my time at the Victoria Hotel has been, it has been our way of life for so long now and I’m extremely grateful to each and every person who has visited our pub.
"A lot has changed since taking over, we have celebrated our customers’ weddings and their children’s weddings, it has been amazing to see our community grow and be part of their journey. I am so grateful to all my team who I’ve worked with over the years and of course, Admiral Taverns who has been a continuous support for us – they are unlike any other pub company.”
Michelle has supported her community with events every year, including charity fundraisers, live music parties and street parties. New licensees, Janice and Lee Ashworth will be continuing her work in the community to make sure the pub stays iconic for years to come.
Andy Longley, Business Development Manager at Admiral Taverns said: “Firstly, I would like to congratulate Michelle and Malcolm on such an incredible achievement – they have truly created a special pub which is loved by locals. Second, it has been a privilege to work with such passionate people, they are always looking for ways to bring the community together and I know they will be sorely missed.
"Everyone at Admiral Taverns wishes them the very best for the future and we will be sure to keep in touch.”
Read next:
- Leeds City Council explains how it keeps the city centre 'spotless'
- Seven people taken to hospital after house fire in Osmondthorpe
- We counted Leeds city centre's empty shops amid fears it is becoming a 'three-day city'
- I visited Leeds' bustling shopping centre and can't understand why some think the city will become a 'ghost town'
- We tried the Leeds Indian restaurant nominated for a 'Curry Oscar'
