Frances Cunningham, landlady of the Swettenham Arms near Congleton, is retiring after over 50 years in the business.

Her career started at The Pool Dole in Stoke in 1973, taking in the Hare and Hounds in Timperley in 1976, then the Dog Inn in Over Peover, the Old Packet House in Broadheath and finally the Swettenham Arms, which she and her family have been running for the last 28 years.

The Swettenham Arms is famous locally for its lavender field, delicious food and the classic car and motorbike meets held in the summer.

The decision to retire has been a difficult one for Fran, who has been in the business for so many years.

"It is always a surprise to me and very heart-warming that customers have actually followed us from location to location over so many decades," says Fran.

"The Swettenham Arms in particular has always been a true family business and I ran it in partnership with my late husband Jim, a former amateur boxer who was popular with locals and customers alike.

"My sons, especially Antony, have also been very involved with the business and worked very hard over the years.

"I'm especially grateful to everyone who supported us over the last couple of years when things have been so difficult for the industry.

"I'd like to thank my wonderful suppliers, including my butcher of 40 years, Webb's of Northwich."

Fran continued: "Owner Chris Webb is totally dedicated to providing top quality produce at a moment's notice and it's been a pleasure to work with him over the years.

"I'd also like to mention Big Fish Little Fish from Smithfield market for reliably delivering fresh fish daily rain or shine, Oliver Perry for local homegrown fruit and vegetables, Manderville's of Holmes Chapel for homemade bread, Masseys Potatoes for fresh chips, Nuttalls and Bidfood for dry produce and Coors and all our other local breweries who have supported us so unfailingly through good times and bad."

The Swettenham Arms will move forwards into the next era with new owners Robinsons Brewery.

Frederic Robinson Limited is one of Britain's oldest independent family breweries based in Stockport with 180 years of brewing heritage and pub retailing.

Established in 1838 the company is now run by the sixth generation of the Robinson family.

"While it's been very upsetting for me to finally say goodbye to the Arms, I'm excited to see it go forwards with its new owners," says Fran.

"Most of my wonderful staff will be staying on for continuity, and I hope the Arms will continue to be both the local asset and popular destination it's always been."