Tributes to much-loved Burnley and Colne pub landlord
Keith Whitehead served thousands of customers across Burnley and Pendle.
A former pub landlord who spent more than two decades pulling pints in Burnley and Colne has died at the age of 86.
Keith Whitehead, whose trademark greeting of “Alright cock” will be fondly remembered by generations of pub-goers, died peacefully at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on Wednesday, October 21, surrounded by his family.
Over the years, Keith became a familiar face behind the bar at the New Inn on Cog Lane in Burnley, the Derby Arms in Colne and the Brickmakers Arms on Yorkshire Street in Burnley.
Born on January 12, 1940, Keith initially worked as a miner before moving into the licensed trade following his redundancy in the mid-1970s. He took over the New Inn in 1975, remaining there until 1977, when the pub was demolished to make way for the Gannow Top roundabout.
He then moved to the Derby Arms, where he spent seven years before taking over the Brickmakers Arms in 1984.
Keith remained behind the bar at the popular Burnley pub until his retirement in 2000. His retirement was featured in the Burnley Express on February 18 that year, under the headline ‘Keith calls time’, when he reflected on his years in the trade and the many friendships he had made.
Speaking at the time, he said: “I have made many friends over the years, and seen generations of families come and go. I would like to thank them all for their years of loyal custom and friendship and the many happy hours.”
Away from the pub, Keith was a devoted family man who loved spending time with his grandchildren and was a keen Burnley Football Club supporter.
Affectionately known as ‘Dapper Dad’ and ‘Grandad Tash’ by his family, he also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, including liquorice, jelly babies, a good steak and a glass of wine.
The family also shared a final glass of dandelion and burdock with Keith, his favourite drink, as they said their goodbyes.
Paying tribute to her partner, Ange Whitehead described Keith as her beloved husband and soulmate, adding: “Will love you forever. RIP.”
Keith also leaves behind his daughters Linda, Susan and Paula, and son Glynn.