A PAIR of loyal regulars at a hotel in the town have had a function room named after them to reward their many visits over the last 50 years.
John and Effie Barnes can often be seen enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning or meal in the restaurant of the White Hart Hotel in Bocking End, Braintree, two or three times a week and have become well-known faces in the establishment.
Mr Barnes, 82, said: "I am really touched that our custom has been recognised in this way and we are very proud to be a permanent part of the White Hart.
"The staff are great, their service is good, we get on with Steve Bryan the manager and his colleagues. It's a central location and we live within a reasonable distance, so it's very convenient."
The couple visit the restaurant around two or three times a week for coffee in the morning, and often stay for a meal as well.
They have also held numerous family functions at the hotel during their decades of patronage.
Mr Barnes, who has lived in Braintree with his wife for 40 years, said: "When he told me they were naming the room after us I thought he was joking at first – it's very nice of them to do and the room looks good.
"I'm not much of a drinker, I'll have the odd glass of wine with a meal but mainly we go there for tea and coffee.
"The White Hart is a real asset to the town centre. It's a lovely place and we have got to know a lot of the other regulars over the years, there's an excellent atmosphere."
Mr Barnes first used the conference room that now bears his name in the 1960s when he held meetings as part of his various NHS management jobs in Chelmsford, including the Chelmsford School of Nursing that became part of Colchester and District Hospitals in 1974.
The White Hart officially opened the newly christened Barnes Room last week, one year after the hotel itself re-opened following a refurbishment.
The hotel dates back to the 16th century and is Braintree's oldest building.
The refit to all areas of the hotel included a new bar, a large dedicated restaurant in the main room, previously used for large events, and a more informal dining and drinking area, as well as work in all 32 bedrooms.
General manager Steve Bryan said: "All the team look forward to seeing Mr and Mrs Barnes, whether they are just popping in for a quick coffee or bringing all their family for a celebration.
"It is a genuine pleasure to welcome them every visit and we are pleased to be able to do something small to acknowledge their loyalty."
