Last toast to a loved landlord (From Swindon Advertiser)

Last toast to a loved landlord

8:30pm Thursday 16th February 2012 in News By Josh Layton

John Atkins, a popular and hard-working town publican, was known as much for his constant smile as his devotion to his job.

The great-grandfather, who died a week ago aged 98, remained actively involved in community life long after retiring from the trade.

He was best known for running two successful pubs, the Rolleston in Commercial Road and the Fox And Hounds, in Haydon Wick, over 27 years.

The avid bowls player was a member of the Swindon Licensed Victuallers’ Association throughout his time in the trade, spending four years as chairman and another four as vice-chairman.

He also ran bars at the town hall and at the Majestic Ballroom, providing drinks for crowds of up to 1,200 people in what is now the Health Hydro, in Milton Road.

Daughter Carole Coombs, 67, a part-time administrator, said: “He was a gentleman. He was a total smiler.

“He took to the trade really well and he was extremely well-liked, both at the Rolleston and the Fox And Hounds. But he wouldn’t stand any nonsense, and one night he jumped over the bar to sort a guy out.

“Above all though he was a good landlord who built up the clientele at the pubs and really made them a success. We have had lots of phone calls from people who knew him, which has been wonderful.”

John came to Swindon in 1951 to run the Rolleston, building up the clientele over 11 years.

Working seven days a week, he then pulled pints at the Fox And Hounds, turning a small beer house into a welcoming, family-friendly pub that catered for the growing size of the area.

The Swindon Town fan and his wife Renée, featured in the Adver when their retirement in 1977 was marked with a presentation of a silver salver on behalf of Courage Brewery.

Youngest daughter Linda Powell, 65, who teaches hairdressing at Swindon College, said: “He was an easy-going man who could also say it like it was. He didn't mince his words, yet at the same time he was friendly and caring with a lovely sense of humour.”

The much-loved publican, who came from a family with a proud tradition of running businesses, had been due to mark his 50th year as a Freemason in April.

He was also an honorary member of Westlecot Bowls Club, in Old Town, as well as being the oldest player.

He maintained his health well into retirement, drove a car until the age of 93, and never lost his smile.

John, a widower, who lived in Peatmoor with Carole and son-in-law Denis, also leaves five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

His funeral takes place at Kingsdown Crematorium on Thursday February 23 at 1pm. Family flowers only but donations would be appreciated for Prospect Hospice c/o Hillier Funeral Service, 170 Victoria Road, Swindon, SN1 3DF.