THE museum courtyard was a scene of celebration on September 26, as Margaret Allin celebrated 25 years of dedicated service running the Victorian Tea Pantry.

Margaret started running the tea rooms on September 26, 1988, and all her regulars came to them for lunch and to celebrate with her.

She was presented with a bunch of flowers, to recognise the achievement, by museum manager Andrew Thompson, museum trustee Ross Slocombe and Hazel Hunt, of Okehampton Tourist Information Centre.

Margaret said: 'It doesn't feel like 25 years. It seems like it has been forever, but also like it has flown by. I look upon my regulars as extended family, so there have been a lot of happy times here, and lots of fun. There are a lot of stories to tell!'

Museum of Dartmoor Life manager Andrew Thompson said: 'For a long time, Margaret and the tea room has been a long part of the museum courtyard. It is important to have the tea room on-site, it adds to the attraction of the museum.

'The courtyard is like a mini-community in itself, with the tea room, museum and tourist information centre, and it is something we are very fortunate to have. Lots of local people use the tea room, and Margaret has her dedicated regulars, but it is also great for visitors too.'