Licensee celebrates 60 years in pub trade

Jean Thompson, 83, is celebrating 40 years at The Sea View in Whittle, a pub she ran with her husband Frank, who died earlier this year and is now run by her son Lee.

Thompson, who was brought up in Chorley and visited The Sea View as a child, said she “always knew this was the pub for her” and is still to be found every lunchtime helping out behind the bar seven days a week. She raised her two sons at the pub instilling her passion for pubs in her youngest son Lee.

The Sea View, property of pub group Star Pubs and Bars, has evolved over the years including the building of a function room which is used by the WI, Chorley Rotary Club, the local golf club, swimming and fishing clubs among others. It was refurbished by Lee a few years ago.

Thompson said: “My aunty lived in a cottage in Whittle, so we came here a lot. My dad used to play dominoes in what was then the snug, while I played in the fields outside. You used to be able to see Blackpool Tower from the pub back then, so he told me to say to people in Chorley that we’d been to Blackpool for the day.

“Frank and I also lived in Watkins Road when we first married aged 21. We wanted The Sea View back then but didn’t have the experience. So, we ran pubs in Preston first, which means I’ve been working in pubs for 60 years.”

She added: “I retire five times a year and come back the day after every time!”

Lee, who took over the helm 12 years ago, added: “I’m really proud of my parents and the fantastic pub they’ve created. My mother encapsulates what makes the Sea View special – great service and warm and welcoming smile. I’ve taken up the baton now and want to continue to keep The Sea View at the heart of the community for many years to come.”