SAME moustache, save service, same atmosphere, different prices. After 20 years at Walmgate's Five Lions, John Harrington is calling time for the very last time tomorrow. The 63 year old, who previously held the reins at the Shoulder of Mutton in Heworth, will be serving his last pints on Sunday, at the princely sum of £1.85.
When he first started they were a mere 50p, and he has noticed a fall in the popularity of pub drinking over the years.
"People drink less now," he told us while busily putting the final touches to his retirement.
"People seem to drink at home instead where it is cheaper, but there is still a need for old-fashioned pubs. Pure locals like this one."
His pub has been such a regular's haunt that when asked if there had been any highlights over the years, his simple reply was: "No highlights. This is just a pub."
He said that he would probably still drink in the Five Lions, but you would never catch him in a wine bar.
Unfortunately John was so busy sorting out the odds and ends associated with leaving a pub that we couldn't grab a picture of him. So we used this old one instead.
"He will be sorely missed," said a regular of one of York's longest-serving publicans.
"He is a great lad and we hope to see him in here again on the other side of the bar."
u WHERE can you go for a great night out and raise a load of cash for needy kids? Elementary, my dear - it's Watson Street.
The Locomotive, on Watson Street, York, is hosting a big charity night on Friday.
The fun kicks off at 8pm and, thanks to a late licence, goes on until midnight.
Have a bawl on the karaoke, or test your powers of creative writing in the fun quiz, because the emphasis is definitely on fun.
"It's hilarious," says Locomotive landlord Dave Hay. "One of the questions is: 'Name the five ugliest politicians'. Well, you're spoilt for choice."
A bumper raffle, with loads of good prizes thanks to a "fantastic response from local companies", will help swell the coffers for Children In Need, the charity nominated by barmaid Vicky.
u You've still got time to quench your flaming thirst and help the US atrocity victims tonight. York Fire Station is holding its second beer festival from 7pm, with proceeds going to help the American firefighters killed in the terrorist attack.
Two drink tokens are included in the £3 admission, and tickets are available from the station in advance. A limited number could still be available on the door tonight.
Raise a glass to those brave New York firefighters while you are there.
u BAR Talk strongly believes that the management at the Rose & Crown should buy Dan Beergutstein a new pair of (larger) trousers.
Our poor beer writer has eaten lunch in the Lawrence Street boozer twice this week (chicken in a basket on Thursday and full English breakfast on Wednesday) and has now dramatically increased in size.
No longer can he agree with BBC Radio York's description of his proportions as 'rake-like'.
The food was huge and delicious and Dan couldn't resist.
"I knew I should stop," he was heard to wail. "But I couldn't help myself."
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