Longford publicans thankful for 27 'unforgettable' years as they prepare to close
Johnny and Molly Creegan took to social media to express their gratitude to locals and visitors to Creegan’s pub in Bunlahy during the past 27 years.
The proprietors of a very popular county Longford pub have thanked their loyal customers and staff for the past 27 'unforgettable' years as they prepare to retire and close their doors.
Johnny and Molly Creegan, who took to social media to express their gratitude to locals and visitors, described their time running the bar as ‘an honour’.
"After 27 unforgettable years, the day has come for us to say our goodbyes.
"When we bought this pub from the Slevin family in 1999, we had no idea of the journey that lay ahead for us.
"Over the past 27 years, we have had the honour of welcoming generations of people through our doors, serving the wonderful community of Bunlahy and beyond, meeting visitors who travelled from every corner of Ireland and from all over the world.
"Looking back, it’s hard to put into words what Creegan’s Bunlahy has meant to us."
Johnny and Molly said it has been so much more than just a pub.
"It's been a meeting place for so many, like a second home to some, where lifelong friendships were made, celebrations were shared, songs were sung into the early hours, stories grew taller with every pint, and memories were created that will last a lifetime.
"Of course, after so many years, there are many people who helped make this place so special, are sadly no longer with us.
"They were part of the heart and soul of Creegan’s, and they will always have a place in our memories."
Johnny and Molly stated a pub is nothing without its people, and they 'have been blessed with the very best'.
"Over the past 27 years, we have been incredibly fortunate to have had such a wonderful team of staff.
"Some stayed for a short while, others for many years, but every one of them played a part in making Creegan’s the place it became.
"To each and every member of our staff, past and present, thank you. Your hard work, loyalty, friendship, laughter and dedication never went unnoticed.
"You weren’t just employees—you became part of our extended family, and we will always be grateful for everything you did.
"We’ve always been proud to support our local community, our clubs, charities and every cause we possibly could. If we’ve played even a small part in putting Bunlahy on the map, then we’re proud of that too."
Johnny and Molly said deciding to retire has 'not been easy'.
"This pub has been our life for nearly three decades, but we know the time is right to hand over the reins and enjoy a new chapter ourselves.”
Johnny and Molly said while this chapter is ending for then, the story of this little pub in Bunlahy is far from over as they signed off.
"We are delighted that it will reopen under new management, and we wish them nothing but happiness and success as they begin writing their own chapter.
"From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives for the past 27 years. We have been truly blessed, and the memories we’ve shared with all of you will stay with us forever.