A COUPLE from Cairo is now pulling pints in Axbridge.

A COUPLE from Cairo is now pulling pints in Axbridge.

Linda Bishop and Ak Kamel are the new landlords of The Crown in St Marys Street. The couple moved to the town from Egypt and took over the pub after looking for a bed and breakfast or a small hotel to run.

Linda met Ak while working as a casino manager in the city, famed for its Pyramids and The Sphinx.

Linda, who was born in London and has lived in Wiltshire, said: "When we came to have a look at the pub we thought 'wow, what a beautiful place'.

"Everyone has been very friendly and supportive.

"Ak is still learning about English humour. It is a big cultural difference for an Egyptian but he is learning to take the mickey."

Ak, who is currently back in Egypt visiting his family, married Linda in 1999. The couple had both been working in the hotel industry in Cairo but made the move to Axbridge in November.

Linda said: "It has been a big dramatic change for both of us but everyone has been so welcoming."

The couple has big plans for the pub, parts of which are more than 500 years old, over the next five years and hope to renovate the skittle alley and expand the beer garden in the back. They also want to introduce a new menu with organic, locally produced food.