THE Borough Hotel has stood the test of time on Southend seafront, welcoming regulars, tourists, as well as furry friends for the last four decades.
Dog lovers Joan and Barry Tiney have owned the pub, on Marine Parade, for more than 40 years.
Their daughter, Nicki, has managed it for the last 15 years and says the family-feel of the pub has been pivotal to its success.
But Bobby “the boss”, a 12-year-old Staffie, has been greeting punters since he was three months old.
Nicki said: “It’s like a kennel in here sometimes. But it’s nice for people to take the dog for a walk, then come out of the cold for a coffee or a pint.
“The regulars are welcoming, too. You can come in from anywhere and have a laugh and a joke with them.
“I’d love to thank our regulars for their support over the years, and all the people who pass through our doors to help a small business like ours keep going.”
Landlady Joan Tiney, 73, says people visit the pub “just to see the dogs”.
She said: “One couple comes all the way from Wimbledon four times a year, to see the dogs. They even bring treats for them.
“Being genuinely dog-friendly is a big draw for people. Even if they don’t have their own dogs, they can come in and see ours.
“We see dogs as part of the family, so they should be allowed to come in with their families.”
“Our regulars are very nosy,” Joan joked.
“They’re welcoming and always want to get to know new people when they come in.
“We don’t do food, although we do encourage people to bring in their own food if they buy a pint."
In addition to its four-legged attractions, the pub offers karaoke and live music, along with a drag show every other month.
Kathy Pond, of Woodgrange Drive, Southend, said: “This is probably my favourite pub along the seafront.
“With the jukebox, the place occasionally bursts into song which is quite nice. There’s a very pleasant feeling here.”
“It’s very reasonable. So, as pensioners, my husband and I can afford to come more often than we could at other places.”
James Crane, a regular visitor for the last four years, said: “My favourite thing about the place is the friendly atmosphere.
“I’ve met a lot of mates here. You can socialise the old-fashioned way, getting to know people over a drink.”
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