A popular Stroud pub has changed its distinctive sign.
Paying tribute to Thomas The Tank Engine author and former Rodborough resident the Rev W Awdry, Prince Albert publicans Lotte and Myles Lyster Connolly commissioned Stroud signwriter Eleanor Harper to paint over the traditional Prince Albert sign and replace it with a a train steaming across the valley. The modern and eye-catching sign also depicts Rodborough Fort and the common.
“We like to think it’s a homage to Rev Awdry, who lived in Rodborough Avenue up until his death in 1997,” said Myles who has worked with his partner Lotte for 18 years behind the bar and coincidentally shares his birthday with Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert.
Lotte, who recently clocked up 26 years at the Albert, insisted the iconic Prince Albert sign could still be brought back to life, she added: “A few people miss the sign, but we feel the new one reflects the community of Rodborough a bit more, but we will possibly have the old Prince Albert sign done again and put on the other corner of the pub.”
