A well-known publican from Romsey has recently celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Veronica Blow nee Gledhill was born on April 17, 1934 in Southampton, living through the Blitz when living near the coast. Veronica's parents had also been in the pub trade, owning two pubs in Southampton.

Veronica met and married Bill Blow before moving to Romsey, initially working as stewards at Romsey Golf Club in 1969, before moving into The Bush in Newtown in the same year.

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Veronica and her husband stayed as landlord and landlady at the pub for eight years, saying that they had the 'most lovely community' before the couple fancied a change, moving from the pub in 1977 to The Boot Inn in Houghton.

They remained at The Boot Inn for a further eight years, retiring from the industry in 1985, with Veronica saying they wanted a break from the hard-working demands of publican life.

Hampshire Chronicle: Veronica with her niece Lynne GardnerVeronica with her niece Lynne Gardner (Image: Newsquest)

Veronica reminisced of the change from imperial to metric in 1972, at which point a mild pint cost 11p, and a pint of bitter cost just 13p.

Veronica, now retired, lives in Romsey, with Bill passing away in 1996.

Veronica said: "How lovely it was to see people from the past, some of whom we have not seen for years. We've made some great friends along the way and had so much fun which is what it is all about."

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A friend in attendance at the birthday party, Gilbert Dance, said: "Once upon a time me and Veronica won mixed doubles in a darts competition at the pub.

"Veronica is a wonderful woman and the best landlady ever. The pubs they ran when they did were absolutely fantastic and real staples of their communities. She's a fantastic woman so it's nice to see everyone together enjoying themselves on her 90th birthday."

Martin Earley, whose mother was Veronica's cousin, said: "Both pubs were places you could go and would be instantly welcomed. Ronnie is a fantastic woman and formidable character, and many happy returns to her."

Veronica's son, Keith Blow, said: "My parents were always very supportive of me, and I'm so lucky she has been there all this time. I'm so pleased she has reached this age and in good health as well.

"We invited 32 people and had 30 turn up, and we've had a great time seeing everyone, reminiscing and having a laugh. It's been a fantastic afternoon, a great celebration with family, two pubs worth of customers and her friends from where she lives now. 

"Happy birthday mum."