Food & Hospitality · Salisbury
Tisbury pub owners step down after 50 years at the heart of village life
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Ron and Ruth Turner are handing over the reins of The Boot Inn in Tisbury to their son, Oliver, following five decades of community service.
A Wiltshire couple who originally intended to stay in the pub trade for just three years have marked a remarkable half-century at the heart of village life. Ron and Ruth Turner, who arrived at The Boot Inn in Tisbury in October 1976, have finally decided to step back from the daily rigours of running the establishment.
Their tenure began almost by chance. The pair, both former serving officers with Sussex Police, were attending a family funeral in the area when they discovered the previous landlord was planning to retire. They applied for the tenancy on a whim, expecting the role to be a short-term chapter in their lives. Instead, they became a cornerstone of the Tisbury community, eventually purchasing the pub from Marston's in 2008 to ensure its future as an independent free house.
Reflecting on the milestone, Ron recalled their original plan with a smile, noting that five decades later, the pub remains central to their lives. The Boot Inn has become known for more than just serving drinks, acting as a hub for charity cricket matches, beer festivals and open mic nights. Their efforts have raised significant funds for local causes, including the Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Salisbury Hospice.
During the difficult months of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Turners continued their service to the community by delivering takeaway meals to residents across the village, providing a vital connection for those living alone. Long-time customer and friend Jim Street described the pub as a unique local asset, praising the couple for maintaining a traditional atmosphere that is becoming increasingly rare.
The transition of power is already well underway, with their son, Oliver, who has managed the kitchen and overseen the introduction of new events, set to take full control. Ruth expressed her confidence in the handover, stating that Oliver is deeply committed to the future of the pub. While the couple plan to move to a new home nearby, they intend to remain a familiar presence in the village.
The celebration of their 50-year milestone was marked by a large party on Saturday, October 17, which coincided with another significant personal event for the family, as Ron celebrated his 80th birthday the day prior.
Source: Wiltshire Times · View original