A dedicated landlord is celebrating his 30 years in charge of a pub in Blackbird Leys.

Glen Williams has lived on the Blackbird Leys estate for most of his life and is a local legend.

The former bus driver has been landlord at The Blackbird in Blackbird Leys Road since 1993 but he started working there before that.

READ MORE: Pub landlord celebrates 23-year milestone 

The pub is now owned by Admiral Taverns and the pub company has staged a celebration to honour Mr Williams. He was presented with a certificate to reflect his long service to the community.

Mr Williams said: "What a privilege it has been to support the Blackbird Leys community over the past 30 years - I have absolutely loved my time at the pub.

"I originally started here in 1985 as a manager before taking over the pub in 1993, after previously working as a bus driver and postman.

Oxford Mail: Glen Williams and Admiral Taverns' Business Development Manager, Paul Barnfather"The community have been amazing throughout my time here - I have tried to listen to them as much as possible and match our offering to that, ensuring there is something for everyone.

"I look forward to welcoming all our regulars, and hopefully new customers, over the busy festive period." 

Paul Barnfather, business development manager at Admiral Taverns, said: "I would like to congratulate Glen on such an amazing accomplishment and reaching this milestone.

He is a true community hero and a real asset to Blackbird Leys - he is loved by everyone. The pub has gone from strength to strength which is a testament to the hard work that Glen has put in over the years.

"I wish him and the team every success for the future."

A 23-year celebration for Mr Williams in 2016 coincided with the pub's refurbishment.

Oxford Mail: He said at the time: "The people are really good in Blackbird Leys.

"We love playing a strong part in the community and supporting locals."

"I'm fit and well and want to keep going."

Customer Jonathan M, who visited earlier this year, left this review on the pub's website: "I'm no George Orwell, and this is not his Moon Under The Water, but it is my idea of a perfect pub.

"All I want from a pub is friendly service, good beer, great atmosphere, and at least one barmaid you can fall in love with, at first sight.

READ MORE: Cafe spelling mistake raises eyebrows 

"I'd prefer lower prices, but realise that I'm a long way from home, and this must be the going rate, round these parts, otherwise why would so many people visit.

"Left here wishing I didn't have to drive... Wishing I lived nearer... And wishing I was a similar age to the beautiful lady in the red outfit, on Good Friday! Can't wait to visit again."

Another customer added: "Loved the atmosphere and friendly service from a good team. The music was absolutely fantastic and the atmosphere is ecstatic on match days."

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

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