“This will be my 36th Fathers’ Day at The Bull’s Head”

In 1983, Paul Hodges – then 14 years old – moved into The Bull’s Head in Cosby with his family. His Dad, Brian, had become the new landlord of the popular Leicestershire community pub. In June that year – more than three-and-a-half decades ago – Paul and his Dad celebrated Fathers’ Day together while living and working at ‘The Bullies’.

Back then, Paul had no idea he would be spending 36 consecutive Fathers’ Days at the pub. Paul followed in his father’s footsteps and became the landlord in 2001. Ever since, he has retained his Dad’s approach of running a family-friendly, welcoming pub that sits at the heart of village life.

This year, Paul will again be celebrating Fathers’ Day at the pub – now with his own children, Samantha and Katie, and grandson, Cody. “It’s amazing to think that this will be my 36th Fathers’ Day at The Bull’s Head,” says Paul. “In many ways, Fathers’ Day is just another day – I’ll be working behind the bar as usual with Samantha and Katie. But it does remind you how nice it is to run a business surrounded by your family. We all live in the village, which makes it easy for us to chip in and make the business work. Us working together also gives The Bull’s Head a friendly, family feel. We all work hard to provide a very good service. We try to make everyone feel welcome.”

Paul’s grandson, Cody – Katie’s son – is now three years old. What are the chances of Cody following in the footsteps of his grandfather and great-grandfather? “You never know,” says Paul. “Ask me again in 36 years!”