A Suffolk landlady who swapped retirement for running her pub will celebrate her 80th birthday this weekend.
Nikki Gavin has been in charge of the historic The Moon and Mushroom pub since 2005 and has become an integral part of the local community.
This weekend, the pub owner will be celebrating her birthday with an event at the Swilland pub and has no intention of stopping yet.
Ms Gavin said: "I've loved my time at the pub. I have met some amazing people. Every day is different, and nobody minds that I'm a total extrovert.
“I love everything about the pub. Its quirky ways, its beauty. The customers who are friends, the staff, and the people I work closely with every day."
Ms Gavin’s journey as a pub owner began 18 years ago when she was planning to retire and move to Spain after running a high-profile events company in London.
Her life took an unexpected turn when the previous landlord announced his decision to sell the pub that was built in 1650.
Seizing the opportunity, Ms Gavin impulsively decided to purchase the Moon and Mushroom, believing that running a pub could not be too challenging.
Ms Gavin now acknowledges that managing such a venue is not for the “faint-hearted”.
She said: "It takes over your life completely, and there's no time for anything else. But I still love every day.
"Owning a pub is not for wimps. It tests you all the time, and you have to be resourceful and inventive, but what a buzz."
The pub, originally known as The Half Moon Inn, was once used as a staging post for villains being deported to far-off colonies.
Under Ms Gavin’s ownership, the pub has flourished and become a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
The landlady invites the local community to join her 80th birthday celebration at the Moon and Mushroom pub on November 11 from 5.30pm.
The event will feature music, delicious food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects Ms Gavin’s vibrant personality.
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