The Cricketers, located at The Cricket Green in Hartley Wintney, held its final farewell event on Tuesday, December 31, ringing in the new year with a “last hurrah” to honour landlady Denise Murtezaj and her contributions to the community.
The informal celebration included a family-style party that welcomed patrons for one final gathering.
Her retirement marks the end of an era for the historic establishment.
The Cricketers pub in Hartley Wintney (Image: Greene King) READ MORE: End of an era: Owners close beloved pub after serving community for 37 years
The pub is steeped in history and faces the village Cricket Green, home to the oldest continually played cricket pitch and club in England.
Over the years, The Cricketers has been a cherished gathering spot for villagers and visitors alike.
Denise and her late husband, Bekim Murtezaj, managed the pub together for several years.
After Bekim’s passing in 2020, Denise continued to run The Cricketers as it remained a popular spot in Hartley Wintney’s social life.
Although The Cricketers has not made an official announcement about its closure on its social media platforms, its final post, dated December 31, invited guests to join the farewell party.
SEE ALSO: Swimming pool reopened at Tadley Health and Fitness Centre
The future of the pub now lies with its brewery, Greene King, which will take over the property.
Villagers hope a new manager will be appointed soon to ensure The Cricketers continues to serve the community.
Greene King has been contacted for comment regarding the pub’s next steps.