Port Isaac’s famous sons the Fisherman’s Friends welcomed new landlords to their local pub this week with a pint of Tribute and a traditional sing-song.

Phillip Chapman and his son-in-law Dale Prins took over the Golden Lion, in Fore Street, on Monday – the pub which has been home to the sea shanty singers for years.

Dale said: “It was a proper Cornish welcome and we’ve been delighted with the warm reception we’ve had from the locals. The Golden Lion is the heart of Port Isaac and we can’t wait to get involved in community life.”

It is the first foray into the pub world for both Phillip, a chartered accountant, and South African Dale, who will be running the pub day-to-day with his partner Sarah.

They plan to retain the Golden Lion’s old Cornish pub heritage, while making a few subtle changes.

Dale, 34, said: “So many British pubs are trying to be something else nowadays and have lost their identity. We are proud to be a traditional Cornish pub – and aim to keep it that way.

“Our food will be high-quality, and sourced locally wherever possible, but will stay true to the British theme. Expect ham hock and fish and chips on the menu, with a St Endellion mess instead of an Eton mess and special hedgerow cocktails, with sloe gin picked from the local area.

“We really want to re-open the downstairs bar and get the pub properly heated. In the summer we’d love to do a hog roast and of course are looking forward to lots of fun with the Fisherman’s Friends.

“Port Isaac is a beautiful place and we feel extremely lucky to be here. I was born in Cape Town and have been coming to Cornwall surfing for many years. I love its natural beauty – it’s like a home from home for me. In fact both my sister and brother live within 10 minutes of the village, so we’re steadily taking over!”

Adam Luck, St Austell Brewery’s Estate Director, said: “The Golden Lion is a proper old fashioned local pub and we are confident Phillip and Dale will do a brilliant job. We are proud to welcome them to the St Austell Brewery family and wish them every success.”