ONE of Truro’s oldest pubs is set to change hands with the departure of its current licensees.

Tom Hannon, chef-patron of the 200-year-old Rising Sun on Mitchell Hill, has announced that he and his family will move on to new challenges after 11 years at the helm.

“It’s time the sun set on our tenure here,” he said. “I love what we do here and what we’ve achieved, but as I look towards the future, there are other aspects of life I’d like to focus on ... so this will be our last summer at the Rising Sun.”

Tom was 29 when he was given the keys to the “Riser”, which is owned by Punch Taverns. Having worked under Michelin-starred chef Chris Eden at the Driftwood hotel on the Roseland, Tom was determined to serve restaurant-quality food without compromising the Rising Sun’s relaxed vibe. The results won plaudits from Taste of the West, Muddy Stilettos and the Great British Pub awards.

Now 40, Tom told the Voice: “The Rising Sun is very much a slice of us. We put the lighting and the radiators in, we chose the colours and paved the patio. It was a tough decision to make, but I believe it’s the right one, at the right time.

“We’re out of our lease agreement with the brewery, and the industry is really difficult. Meanwhile, I have a daughter – six-year-old May - I’d like to spend more time with, rather than working at weekends, Easter and Christmas.

“And there are things I’d like to do while I’m still young enough – vineyards, breweries, pop-ups, nothing is set yet.”

Tom and Katie also run Fitzpatricks in Quay Street, and have confirmed they will continue to do so. In the meantime, expect their final months at the Rising Sun to be marked by special events involving champagne and “shouts”.

Punch Pubs operations director, Ed Passey, said: “After 11 years at the helm of The Rising Sun, Truro, Tom and Katie have made the personal decision to leave their pub at the end of their lease.

“I would like to thank them both for their hard work and commitment throughout their tenure, and whilst our partnership is sadly coming to an end at The Rising Sun, we are thrilled to continue our relationship at Fitzpatrick’s and wish them both the very best there as well as any other future pursuits.

“The Rising Sun is a hugely important part of our estate, it is a fantastic and beloved pub. Our priority is to ensure it remains open and trading so that we can continue to see it thriving and serving the community of Truro for many years to come.”