ANDY Ward, landlord of the Talbot Hotel, is raising a glass to the town he loves after becoming the third longest-serving landlord at the historic coaching inn, since records began at the end of the seventeenth century.

Mr Ward has been 21 years behind the pumps at The Talbot, and thanks to a list of landlords which was compiled several years ago, by a local history enthusiast, Mr Ward is certain that only two landlords in history have exceeded his stretch at the well-known New Street pub.

When asked why he has never felt the urge to pull a pint elsewhere, Mr Ward said: "It's down to me falling in love with Ledbury during the first six months I was here. It's charming and completely special, as are its people.

"I feel more at home here than I have ever felt anywhere else before."

On Tuesday, Mr Ward and his wife, Maria, celebrated the landmark with a party at The Talbot

Every 21st drink ordered was free, to mark the special anniversary, and the tally was kept with the use of a clicker.

There was live music with Del Boy & Dave and there was also a chance for locals to shine with an air guitars session.

Mr Ward himself presided over "Rock 'n Roll Bingo," where the beginnings of songs were played instead of numbers being given out.

"It was a lot of fun," said Mr Ward.

Mr Ward is a very well-known figure in Ledbury, and his community achievements over the year include promoting the English Festival, helping with Ledbury Carnival and chairing the Ledbury Tourism Association.

The Talbot witnessed fighting during the English Civil War and it is reputed to be haunted by a serving maid who died in the panelled room, after being shot by a soldier.