The landlord and head chef of an Oaksey pub is leaving after nearly a decade of dedication and hard work, handing the reins to his 20-year-old son.

Tony Robson-Burrell has been running the Wheat-sheaf for eight years and transformed the pub into an award-winning food operation.

He has held two AA Rosettes for six consecutive years and has also been acknowledged for his gourmet burger menu in the new 2013 AA Pub Guide.

Mr Robson-Burrell is calling time on his tenure and emigrating with his wife, Holly, and two young children to New Zealand.

He said: “To be recognised by a guide like the AA is amazing, but New Zealand is something we have always wanted to do and we can’t wait to get over there. “It will be a sad day when we leave the pub for the last time but I know I am leaving it in the very capable hands of my son and Chelsey.”

Ritz Hotel-trained Jack Robson-Burrell has been working with his father for the last four years and is taking over the running of the pub with his friend and business partner Chelsey Taylor.

He said: “It’s a shame to see Dad go. He has done so much for the pub and the village in such a short space of time but I know he wants a new challenge. “I hope that I can continue what he has started and cement our reputation as one of the best dining pubs in the area.”

Mr Robson-Burrell Snr has contributed to the area by raising nearly £1,600 for a new defibrillator in the village, and by serving school dinners to the local primary school four days a week, which his son will continue to do.

The young business partners, both 20, are holding a launch party at The Wheatsheaf on November 3.

Examples of the pub’s menus, including their new gourmet burger menu, can be found at www. thewheatsheafatoaksey.co.uk