Oh how I’ve missed the good old British pub

That bastion of booze and banter, of hearty, proper grub.

The quintessential setting on this island for all that chat and chortle

A welcome haven to preach and prophesise for us here mere mortals.

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It’s in the pub that beer is sunk in all its various guises

Stouts, ales, lagers, a plethora of hoppy surprises

Gin and vodka are downed along with rum, port and whisky

But excess of the latter can make imbiber lairy and frisky!

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Cider, wines and cocktails – but its mocktails that are the latest fad

Champagne to celebrate the good times, brandy to soothe the bad

Sunday roasts, pickled eggs, nuts and crisps a plenty

A classless sanctuary where all are welcome from driver of Mini to Bentley.

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Friendships, local gossip, politics and “Cheers!”

The secrets and stories shared over wines and beers.

A social media conduit, long before modern technology

The spillage of information under the spell of mixology.

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The buzz, the vibe, the atmosphere, unique in every inn

But its neutral ground, loyal to the punter through both thick and thin.

A quick half or a long night session, another tab at the bar

To connect with local friends or chums who’ve come from afar.

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As lockdown begins to ease we yearn for The Red Lion, The Lamb and The Crown

The Royal Oak, The White Horse, The Plough and The Fox and Hounds.

So celebrate this British institution, the local social hub

And once again enjoy your tavern, your inn, your boozer, your pub.