'We poured our last pint' - Offaly publicans announce retirement amid tributes

Tributes have been paid after legendary Offaly publicans Aggie and Brendan Darcy announced their retirement on Tuesday evening. 

The pair have been the proprietors of The Blackthorn on the main street in Daingean for 30 years but have confirmed they have stepped away from the bar for the last time.

In a heartfelt post on social media, they wrote: "After 30 memorable years of being the proud owners of The Blackthorn, it is with a heavy heart that we write this post.

"On Monday night we poured our last pint and stood behind the bar as publicans for the last time, extremely proud and grateful of what we have achieved in the past three decades.

"The memories we have made as a family with all our loyal customers and staff will never be forgotten, the good times, the hard times, the funny times have shaped us as people and we will forever be grateful to what the people of Daingean have done for us.

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"We have employed over 50 staff in the last 30 years and each one of them have contributed to the success of The Blackthorn.
As lots of you will know The Blackthorn would not be the place it is today without our amazing staff who have worked so hard with ourselves but in particular Mags and Ann who worked for us for 20+ years and will forever be a part of our family."

It is the end of an era and after 30 years, Aggie and Brendan say they are looking forward to "hanging up their boots and spending some well deserved quality time with their family.

"It will be a memorable Christmas for the first time being at home over the holidays and we couldn’t be more looking forward to it.

"The biggest thank you to each and every person that walked through our doors, we will always have a special place in our heart for The Blackthorn," their statement concluded.

Locals were quick to share their memories and tributes on social media. One person said: "Sad to read this Brendan and Aggie. I've had some wonderful nights in the Blackthorn over the years and you have both made me feel very welcome when I've been over on holiday. Thank you so much to you both, also to Mags, Ann and all the staff. Best wishes for the future."

A former employee added: "Was a privilege to work for you both and have great fond memories of my time there, met the best characters ever, shared many a sad and happy tears and worked with great people. You will be sadly missed guys. Won't forget the characters of the Blackthorn either who are no longer with us today either, forever in our hearts. Enjoy the new chapter guys, and thank you for the memories."