'To let' sign appears outside legendary Black Country pub as landlord aims to retire after 26 years
The future of an iconic Black Country pub has been left uncertain after a 'to let' sign went up outside.
The sign has appeared outside the Old Swan in Netherton, affectionately known as Ma Pardoes, as owner Star Pubs looks for a new landlord following the news longstanding licensee Tim Newey intends to retire.
It's the latest test for a pub which has struggled over the last few years, due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the cost of living crisis, rising business rates and a decreased patronage.
Mr Newey said he had first made the decision to retire back in 2024, having worked at the pub for 40 years in two spells as landlord.
However at that point he had two years left on the lease, and agreed to stay on as landlord until a new one could be found due to being liable for costs at the pub. His new retirement date, February 25, came and went and he remains in place.
The 66-year-old told the Express & Star: "I wanted to retire two years ago when the brewer Paul Cooksey retired, but I had two years left on the lease and the head had nominally agreed to let me go, but if I hadn't got anyone in, I'd have been liable for the rent, so I'm in situ until they bring someone in.
"I've been here 26 years in this spell, so it's not like news of my retirement came out of the blue as I knew 10 years ago when I was going to finish as I wouldn't be able to take it on for another 10, as it would make me 76 when I finished.
