A POPULAR bar and restaurant in St Asaph has closed for a refurbishment after its owners of 27 years announced their decision to retire.
The Plough, located at The Roe, has shut until Monday, 23 February to undergo a renovation.
On February 9, the former owners of 27 years, Simon and Joanne Rodenhurst, announced their retirement and the sale of the business "with a heavy heart".
In a statement on social media, the couple said: "After 27 years, we have pulled our final pint and served our final meal.
"With a heavy heart, we decided to sell the Plough and start our retirement.
"We thank all our loyal customers for their support over the years, but an even bigger thank you to the family of staff who have helped us on our journey."'
Memories
People took to social media to thank the couple, with a former staff member calling the end of an era "a very strange and surreal feeling".
They added: "For a lot of us, it’s where we met our significant others. For me, it’s where I met my wife and where we managed to save enough to buy our first house.
"For a long time it was the beating heart of the city. The nights out, the bands, the dramas and most importantly the memories, make the Plough unforgettable for a lot of us.
"Thank you to everyone involved, it closes a big chapter in a lot of our lives."
Another patron said they had been "at your opening night all those years ago, our three daughters worked there over the years, our grandchildren now, I hope it does as well".
A third regular said they hoped the new owners "retain the lovely ambience of the place", and said: "You will be missed. Have a wonderful retirement. Let's hope the newbies are up to the job and can continue to create lovely memories, good food and drink and, more importantly, retain the lovely ambience of the place."
One person who had celebrated their 30th birthday at the bar and once worked there said: Enjoy your retirement. My best shifts were with you guys, my best meals and 30th birthday celebrations with you! Sad to see you closing but wishing you the best retirement."
Thanks
MS for the Vale of Clwyd, Gareth Davies, also posted a tribute to the couple, which read: "Many thanks to the current owners of The Plough St Asaph Bar, Restaurant & Venue for their 27 years of service as they embark on their retirement.
"The Plough is one of the most popular pubs in the area and has been for a long time, I'm sure most people have a story to tell!
"Pubs are having a tough time of it in current economic conditions and therefore it's more important than ever to support them if you can.
"I hope for The Plough's continued success under its new owners."
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