AFTER 29 years of running The Pulpit Inn, Dan Fox and his wife Jackie have called for last orders one final time.

The Pulpit Inn has been sold and is under new management, with the former owners now both preparing for a well-earned retirement. The inn sits in a premium location, overlooking Portland Bill and the English Channel. It is well known for its atmosphere and popular pub grub.

Mr Fox, 68, said the time was right for the couple to move on but he admitted he would miss certain aspects of the job.

“I think I’m going to miss the people, the buzz of the pub. It’s what I’ve made it. There’s been so much of me in it.

“The business can move on, but I’ve enjoyed it here. I’ve had a lovely time.”

The former landlord believes having the right staff giving the right service played a key role in creating the inn’s positive atmosphere.

Mrs Fox, 69, said the inn’s location also played a significant part in its success.

“People come out here for the view and it’s a nice drive out. If you don’t know the area, and you want to come out and have a look there’s a lot of open space.”

During the couple’s period of ownership, the inn has had a variety of characters entering its doors.

Mrs Fox claims former Chancellor of the Exchequer Norman Lamont visited the inn the night before Black Wednesday in 1992.

She said: “The night before that Wednesday he was here in the bar. The next day the bombshell dropped and we never even twigged.

“There have been a lot of interesting people from all walks of life. You just never know who’s going to walk in.”

The couple now plan to remain on Portland, spending time with their four grandchildren.

But having free time to spend will be one of the biggest adjustments for the hardworking duo.

Mrs Fox said: “We’ve both always worked. We’re very, very lucky. We left school at 16 and have never ever been out of work.”

The inn’s current staff will be staying on to provide continuity and help the new owners settle in.

The couple have wished the new owners well and want to thank customers who have visited over the years.

Mr Fox said: “I just want to thank the customers for their loyal support for the last 29 years that made the Pulpit what it is today. Without the customers, it would have been nothing.”