A HUSBAND and wife team have retired after running Haltwhistle Comrades’ Club for almost 40 years.

Walter and Carol Eals have been familiar faces behind the bar since becoming steward and stewardess in 1978.

But the legacy of the couple will live on in the form of their niece, Laura Eals, who has taken over as stewardess.

“We’ve been here for 39 years and eight months,” said Walter, who will turn 70 in July.

“We just decided to get Christmas and New Year out of the way, and then step aside.

“It’s the right time to go. We have made so many friends over the years here, and I want to thank everyone for the memories.”

Two years after joining the club, Walter and Carol presided over major changes to accommodate demand.

The club purchased a neighbouring garage showroom, which was converted into what is now the bar area, and made other alterations.

Walter explained: “At that time there was a lot of employment in Haltwhistle.

“The place was bustling every night, and we’d often use 22 barrels of beer per week. There was a restaurant upstairs, but it wasn’t as viable as the club, so it was closed and we created a lounge and concert room.”

Walter introduced real ale to the Comrades’ eight years ago, and it went on to win a multitude of awards by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

For six consecutive years, it was named Northumberland club of the year for real ale.

Walter added: “We have always been well supported by the Haltwhistle people, and several community groups meet here regularly.”

Laura (23), who has worked at the club for the past four years, said: “Carol dropped the bombshell that they were leaving a few months ago, but now I’m looking forward to carrying on their excellent work.”