A long-standing, family run pub is gearing up to host a special 'back in the day' reunion, sparking excitement and interest within the local community.

The Hod Carrier pub in Whitnash, which has been part of the local community for over 40 years, is preparing to welcome back familiar faces for a special reunion.

The pub's current landlord, Jason Cleary, whose in his fifties, has been going to the pub since he was just 20 years old.

He explained that the idea for the reunion came about after the passing of a long-standing regular who had visited the pub daily for over 30 years. His loss brought people back to the pub and together again, and someone suggested it would be nice to do the same on a happier occasion, not only during sad times.

Jason, who is also a celebrant and often does funeral work, shared: "The first landlord of the pub, Andy Williams, his daughter got in touch and has helped organise the reunion event.

"I already have about 80 people interested, and that's just from a Facebook post last week, so it doesn't include all those without Facebook," he said.

What began as a simple idea to reconnect old friends, has swiftly expanded into something far greater, drawing people from distant locations to participate.

"There's been a lot of interest. It's really taken off, much more than we expected," Jason explained.

He went on to note that a couple are even travelling down from Sunderland, to make the reunion.

The event itself will welcome back a DJ who used to perform at the pub, and who will perform a special set.

When asked what he was most looking forward to about the event, Jason shared he is excited to get everyone who previously worked at the pub, to take turns pouring a pint.

Originally a pub frequented by working men and builders, the Hod Carrier was known for its male-oriented clientele.

However, Jason highlighted the pub has since evolved.

In April of last year (2025) the pub closed for a refurbishment, reopening with improvements amounting to nearly £100,000.

Describing how the pub has changed, Jason said: "There are more families now, more women, more children coming in."

The pub also hosts a grief café, supported by W G Rathbones and H J Dawson's Funeral Directors.

Prior to the 'back in the day' reunion, Jason shared he is also helping to host a charity event, supporting a local who is raising money following the loss of friends to cancer, with aims to raise £10,000.

With the event gaining momentum and receiving strong local support, The Hod Carrier reunion promises to be a meaningful celebration of shared history, community spirit, and the enduring role of the local pub at its heart.

The reunion is set to take place on 7 March 2026 at the Hod Carrier in Whitnash.