THE OWNERS of a popular hotel in Ilminster are celebrating after retiring after more than 50 years at the helm.

Stuart and Liz Shepherd, managers of The Shrubbery Hotel, have finally checked out after more than half a century running the hotel.

The couple first met in 1959 as they both undertook a course in hotel management at the Battersea College of Technology, now known as the University of Surrey.

It was love at first sight for the couple, who married at the end of their course on December 14, 1963.

After a brief honeymoon, the duo took up the helm of the The Shrubbery on December 20, before buying the establishment in 1966.

The couple then owned and managed the hotel until 18 months ago when it was bought, but Stuart continued to manage the hotel to ensure a smooth transition.

Now, the couple have finally decided to retire, and have handed over the running to the new owners.

To celebrate the occasion, the local Rotary club, which Stuart is a member of, held a special meal and party, as well as giving gifts to the couple.

President of the Ilminster Rotary Club Linda Piggott-Vijeh helped organise the event, and also subjected Stuart to a Piers Morgan-type Life Stories interview as he recalled his fondest memories of the hotel.

She said: “Although they have now retired from the running the hotel, Stuart and Liz will still be based locally, and will continue to play an active part in the life of the town and the local community.

“For our Rotary club this will mean some changes as we have all become so used to Stuart’s individual style of management.

“I first met Stuart when as an AA hotel and restaurant inspector and I came to inspect the hotel 20 years ago.

“We did not see eye-to-eye over my report and Stuart did not speak to me for 10 years; he even tried to prevent me joining Rotary, he was still so cross.

“Nowadays, although we do not always see eye-to-eye, we have called a truce, although from time to time we still cross swords and then the sparks fly.”

Around 50 guests attended the special celebration, including Rotary members both past and present.

Mr Shepherd was also presented with a monogrammed handkerchief, just in case, and it was well used as he became quite emotional when reminiscing over his time as an hotelier, especially when speaking about the huge support his wife Liz had been throughout their married life.