Emotional final shift behind bar for couple as they move on from running famous pub after more than 30 years

Mark and Anne Boxley have been at the helm of The Maverick, Brettle Lane, for more than three decades, during which it gained a reputation for live music, real ale and its wild west, American theming.

Mark, who is originally from Cradley Heath, first went into the trade running what became the River Rooms in Stourbridge before selling it and concentrating on The Maverick, which he took over in 1992.

Yesterday (July 27), their last day behind the bar, the couple held a party for guests and customers past and present. It featured a number of couples who first met there and then got married present. A glass was also raised to absent friends.