POPULAR Cirencester couple Sam and Kelly Keen have enjoyed their first weekend as new landlords of the town’s largest pub, the Golden Farm.

The couple, who already own three other businesses in the town including the Old Cafe on Cricklade Street and piercing studio Everlasting Impressions, took over as tenants of the pub from Andy and Amanda Brown on November 1.

“It was a massive decision", Kelly said. "We were looking for a pub for a while and Andy told us to hold on as they were planning to leave in about five years time. However he came back to us in April and told us they had decided to leave in five months instead. It was quite a decision to make. We jumped in at the deep end.

“We have been really well received. Locals have been very supportive. They already know us. We will make a few changes including serving food including basket meals from Wednesday to Saturday.”

Sam, 33 and Kelly, 41, who have four children, will divide up the duties at the pub. Kelly, who is also involved with the town's Phoenix Festival, will continue to work mainly in the piercing studio but will also be responsible for the entertainment and events at the pub, which has a strong local reputation for music at The Vaults.

“It is important that we keep the Vaults side of the business going,” Kelly said. “There will be a few extras but we don’t want to make many changes.”

Sam, who will run the pub, was delighted with how the first weekend had gone. “It was fantastic. We have had great feedback from locals. It is a big challenge taking on the biggest pub in Cirencester.

“I have wanted a pub for a long time. The only side that worried me was the live music side but Kelly has stepped up and will build on the music.”

A Launch Party is on November 10 from 7pm-late with Pavo live on stage at 9.30pm.