CUSTODIANS of the Dust Hole in Salisbury – also known as the Railway Inn – have announced they are stepping away from the pub next month.

Tony and Carol Harding are handing over the reins of the pub they have presided over for the past 20 years so Tony can focus on his health.

The couple said the long hours, physical demands, and constant stress took their toll on Tony, which lead to a series of medical issues that “could no longer be ignored.”

A farewell gathering is taking place at the pub on April 19 which they say will be a night filled with nostalgia and emotion as people come together to bid farewell.

The pair say doors will close on April 20 and they will have to vacate the premises on June 30 – if not before.

They said: “With deep regret we have to pour our last pint. For twenty years, our beloved pub, nestled in the corner of Salisbury, has been more than just a place to enjoy a pint.

“It has been a sanctuary for fellowship, a beacon of tradition, and a labour of love.

“Two decades ago, when we first assumed control of the pub, it was a worn-out Dust Hole.

“Our dedication to the pub was evident over the years, from the carefully curated food menu to the seasonal decorations that adorned the walls and the crazy events over the years.

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“As the years progressed, our pub encountered its share of challenges.

“The advent of non-smoking was the first, then Covid years later, among other challenges, the changes in drinking habits and economic fluctuations and the system failing us, all contributed to a gradual decline in trade and income.

“Yet, despite all these obstacles, we remained resolute, continuously adapting to keep the pub afloat.”

They said that as they struggled to maintain the pub’s viability, Tony’s health began to deteriorate which they could no longer ignore.

They added: “Yet, we soldiered on, fuelled by our love for the pub and the sense of duty to the community. This day has arrived when, after much contemplation and with a heavy heart, we made the difficult decision to step down.

“It was a decision born out of necessity rather than desire—a recognition that my health and well-being had to take precedence.

“As the final days approach, we have taken time to reflect on the countless memories made within the pub’s walls.

“We have reminisced about the celebratory toasts, the heartfelt conversations, the clinking of glasses, the murmur of more conversations, and the occasional burst of laughter [that] created a symphony of sounds and the friendships forged over pints of ale, glasses of wine and other favourite tipples.

“There are many stories of love and loss, of triumphs and tribulations, all woven into the fabric of the pub’s history.”

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The couple are inviting regulars and friends “who had come to see the pub as their second home” to express and share their fond memories of the times they had at the farewell evening in April, and a book will be provided for people to write these down.

They added: “As we hand over the keys, we will do so with a mixture of sadness and gratitude. Our time as the custodians of the pub has come to an end, but the legacy that we leave behind will endure.

“Our pub has been more than just a business; it has been a labour of love, a sanctuary for fellowship, a beacon of tradition and our home.

“Our and others dedication and passion have woven a tapestry of memories that we hope will be cherished by all who had the privilege of being part of its story.

“And to our landlord, we thank him for his steadfast support and encouragement over the years. We could not have done it without him.

“In the quiet moments that will follow our departure, we can find peace in knowing that we have given the best of our years to the pub and the people we served.

“My health, though stable, is now our priority. We look forward to the days of rest and recovery ahead, enjoying the simpler things in life together.

“The pub, with its storied past of our times together, remains a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the unwavering commitment of remarkable people who drank here with us.

“It’s been a pleasure to serve you all; thank you.”