Mrs Rogers has pulled thousands of pints at the Lion Hotel

Mary Rogers has pulled her last pint at the Lion Hotel in Berriew, near Welshpool, after working for eight different landlords and ladies.

She refused to retire sooner because she enjoyed the company of the pub's regulars.

And she revealed that one of secrets to being a good barmaid was having the ability to pour a "decent pint."

"I've enjoyed working behind the bar, especially since my husband died eight years ago because it gave something else to think about," said great grandmother Mrs Rogers, who lives in Berriew.

I've known some of the regulars since they were old enough to drink Mary Rogers

Mrs Rogers, who preferred to call herself a barmaid than the politically correct bar person, added: "I started at the Lion Hotel as a cleaner 47 years ago and I worked two days a week.

"Then 36 years ago I started working behind the bar. I'll miss the job but I think it's time I retire.

"I enjoyed getting out of the house and meeting and chatting to people. In fact, I've known some of the regulars since they were old enough to drink."

She said: "A lot of people can't pull a pint, but I've mastered it thanks to years of practice. I never allowed bad language in the bar either."

She explained that that few things had changed over the decades although there were a few more drinks on the market now.

The Lion Hotel is run by Patrick and Marilyn O'Keefe. "Mrs Rogers was a valued member of staff who mastered the new technology we installed at the pub when we moved in a year ago," Mr O'Keefe said.

"She also took bookings for accommodation and for the restaurant.

"She's still a regular visitor, but we are sorry to see her go."

Mr and Mrs O'Keefe organised a retirement party for Mrs Rogers and many of the hotel's regulars attended.