When the Sears bought the Golden Lion in Stithians, which was voted the Packet's Best Rural/Village Pub, it was their first ever foray into the industry.

Sarah, a sign maker, and Mark, an engineer, were long-time customers when the previous owners announced their plans to retire.

The pair became concerned about the fate of their local boozer, and even though they had no experience running a pub they decided to take the plunge.

Falmouth Packet:

Customers are greeted by a roaring fire. Picture: Will Dax

Sarah said: "It's a very rural pub, there's nothing around us. Just a few farms and houses. There's no real traffic or footfall here.

"[We thought] what would happen to it? Would it be a housing estate? Would it be sold into apartments? So it played on our minds a bit, and being community spirited we ended up buying the pub."

In the last few years, their head-first dive into the deep end of the pub industry has been rewarded by the admiration of the local community.

Sarah said: "Everyone has supported us. They were all here hands on to help us open. There was lots of renovation work that we needed to do; gardening, the front, signage and making it look pretty for our big opening day.

"We had neighbours popping in saying 'can I do anything?'"

Falmouth Packet:

The famous golden lion. Picture: Will Dax

And despite their remote location (boasting a picturesque view of Stithians Reservoir), business has been booming.

Mark said: "We get customers from all over the world really, with the internet and everything."

Customers at the Golden Lion are greeted by a roaring fire and Sarah's welcoming smile whilst being shown to a table.

She says that one of the biggest keys to their success is the support of a dedicated team of staff.

Sarah said: "They treat the place like it's their business. You couldn't ask for better really. They're very passionate about what they do, they care about the customers."

For more information on the Golden Lion, visit: staustellbrewery.co.uk/pub/redruth/golden-lion-inn.