A LANDLADY who has been praised for bringing a beloved pub back to life is calling time on her tenure.

Kirsten Price has announced that she is ending her tenancy at Rhayader's Castle Hotel next month. Kirsten says she has made the decision for family reasons, with a leaving party planned at the East Street pub on Saturday, September 23.

“As some of you are aware it is with sadness that I confirm I will be stopping trading from September 24,” Kirsten announced on the pub’s Facebook page on Friday.

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“After long and deep thought I've decided to end my tenancy. The past six-and-a-half years have been a pleasure to serve all my loyal customers. You will all be missed but I want to spend more time with my family and unfortunately I'm not able to do so with having the pub.

“I'd like to take the opportunity to thank everybody for making the Castle a huge success for me and my staff.

“Could any vouchers be redeemed by September 23. We are having a leaving party on September 23, more details to follow.

“Anybody genuinely interested in taking the Castle over, please get in touch with either myself or Mike Lloyd. Once again, a huge thank you to all.”

Kirsten has made the decision to call last orders after six-and-a-half years at the helm and will clearly be missed judging by the flood of comments and well wishes the announcement attracted.

“You will be greatly missed Kirsten,” said Diane Reeve.

Emma Jones told Kirsten she had “brought the Castle back to life”, adding: “You have done a fantastic job while you have been there. Enjoy your time with your family.

"It is precious, and good luck with whatever you choose to do next.”

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Ceri Williams said: “Best of luck, been there a few times while staying over in Rhayader at the Elan (Valley) during the Royal Welsh and the Winter Fair down in Builth, fantastic crowd.”

Dick Bradley added: “I was your very first customer so I will have to be the last one out of the door that night”.

For more information on the leaving party planned for September 23, keep an eye on the Castle Hotel Rhayader Facebook page. Alternatively, and if you’re interested in taking on the lease, phone the pub on 01597 811228.