Shirley pub owners set to retire after more than 20 years

Jean Saint, 88, and Jackie Edlin, 64, are preparing to hand over the keys of The Stile Inn to new owners.

The pair used to run the Blacksmiths Arms in Shirley before taking over The Stile Inn in Shirley Road in the early 2000s.

However, after all these years, and the current financial pressures, they have decided to retire.

Jean Saint, 88, and Jackie Edlin, 64 (Image: Newsquest)

As they bid their farewell, Jean and Jackie said they are thankful to their loyal customers and staff and are proud of what they accomplished.

Jackie said: "Our staff and customers did a lot for charity. 

"We raised money for cancer charities and air ambulances. 

"We've hosted Halloween, Christmas, and New Year's parties, and it's just a hub for the community. 

"But running the pub with my mum has been the best part all these years. 

"She is my best friend and the best business partner I could have ever asked for. 

"She's a legend and well-loved by everybody in here." 

Owners of The Stile Inn, Jean Saint (Image: Newsquest)

She added: "We've been here all this time, and it's just time to retire. 

"All our customers from when we first opened still come in now, and it will be sad not to see them anymore. 

"But it's just come to a point where I think that it's time to give it up." 

The mum-of-two also pointed out the struggles to pay bills because of the cost of living crisis. 

"We're just not making enough to cover our electric, gas, wages, cleaning, food, alcohol, and everything else," she said. 

"It's a struggle and just not beneficial anymore. It's too much stress." 

Jackie Edlin with her husband Rodney (Image: Jackie Edlin with her husband Rodney)

Jean and Jackie's last day at the pub is Saturday, February 25. 

Both are looking forward to focusing on their health and spending more time with their family.