A popular pub and eaterie in west Stirlingshire has been put on the market, with the owner giving an emotional explanation for the sale.
Lynne Alldritt took over the Beech Tree Inn in Killearn in 2004.
However, she has announced that the inn is now up for sale after a change in family circumstances.
In a Facebook post at the weekend, Lynne said: “This is a sad announcement for me personally, but I have always been honest with you so I need to tell you that after many months of trying to keep going, I have put the Beech Tree on the market for sale.
“I have loved being here for the past 18 years and we have made many changes over that time.
“It has been my life and a mission of love. Some people love it, others not so much, but we have always tried to do the right things, maybe fell short at times, but never stopped trying.
“There are several factors for having to sell up, it’s not what I want, but circumstances require it.”
Lynne said family health matters, plus business pressures exacerbated by lockdown had finally pushed her towards the difficult decision to sell up.
“My parents’ health is getting much worse and I need to be able to commit more time to them. Things are moving in the wrong direction for them, and I need to be there for them.
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“It has also obviously been challenging for six or so years for me at the Beech Tree, with all the car park issues and having to create a new one, it put us on back foot going into the Covid lockdowns, and with the current cost-of-living crisis and massive energy prices it isn’t helping now.”
Lynne said animals which had been a popular draw at the Beech Tree would mainly go with her.
“The animals were all set up to provide subtle education for the kids, but they are all now part of the Beech Tree family and most will be going with me wherever I end up, so I can continue to love and look after them,” she said.
“There are many different opportunities for the Beech Tree site, a kids’ nursery, accommodation for the West Highland Way, even as a great house with a lovely garden, but I hope it will be sold to someone who will continue to build it as a restaurant and pub and provide services for the West Highland Way.”
In a message to her customers she added: “We will be here for a several months yet, so I hope you will drop us a visit soon, before everything changes. I have had the privilege of being able to live at the Beech Tree for many years, it’s not just a business to me, but it is my home and I cannot thank you enough for all the support you have given us over the years.
“Without your support we would not have made it to nearly 19 years. I will keep you posted of developments.
“But for now it’s business as usual for us.”
