In 1999 the landlord of the Mill Arms in Dunbridge was visited by an American man who turned out to have the most unlikely of business cards: Those of the US Secret Service.
Terry Lewis, 67, from Laurence Mews, Romsey, now retired, was dumbstruck and sworn to secrecy when he was told President Jimmy Carter wanted to stay at his pub and fish on the River Test.
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“To Terry Lewis – We really enjoyed our stay with you. The food and service were excellent! Rosalynn Carter, Jimmy Carter” (Image: Terry Lewis) “He wanted to be treated just like an ordinary fisherman […] except there were ten security officers with him,” said the former pub landlord.
The former American president, famed for his turbulent time in office, was used to more “luxurious” surroundings but was recommended the Hampshire country pub.
Preparing for Carter’s visit, one peculiar interaction saw Terry need to ask a nearby landowner to clear their land in case an emergency evacuation was needed – of course, he could not tell the landowner why at the time.
Recalling his relationship with the armed Secret Service agents, Terry said: “It was quite interesting, we got on really well with the security detail.”
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Carter was not the only president of the USA to make a fishing pilgrimage to the Test, George Bush Sr. was also known to enjoy a trip.
The Chronicle asked Terry what he thought of the president. He said: “Smashing! He was a cracking fella and really endeared himself to the customers. He also sat down and spoke to them.”
The president, besides his security, was not alone and came to the pub with his wife, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who also spoke to customers.
The longtime landlord commented that the former peanut farmer even asked his permission before talking to everyone.
Although used to handling high-profile customers, including members of the Royal Family, Terry noted the Carters were “different” because they never took advantage of his hospitality.
With no visit to a British pub complete without good food, the Chronicle asked what the couple ate during their stay.
Terry said: “He had steak and ale pie! He just asked what the most popular dish in the pub was. He also had soup and his wife had ravioli.”
Although often touted as one of the worst presidents by many commentators, the Romsey man became a fan of Jimmy Carter and followed his work after his stay.
He said: “He’s remembered as a one-term president […] but until very late on he was instrumental in doing philanthropic deeds.”