A WELL-known Wollaston pub landlord and “true gentleman” has died, aged 77, after being diagnosed with brain tumours.

John Freeman was the landlord of The Unicorn pub, in Bridgnorth Road, for more than 20 years until his illness was diagnosed.

Family friend, Carolyn Scott, said it is currently a sad time for everyone who knew John and he will be “truly missed”.

She added: “He’s been a friend of mine for more than 20 years.

“When my husband and I moved into the area we started visiting The Unicorn and John was so welcoming. We have since gone on various holidays together.

“He was a true gentleman and an amazing person, but more than anything he thoroughly loved running his pubs.”

Throughout his life, John ran various pubs across the country, including The Harbour Lights on the Isle of Wight.

The Stourbridge and Halesowen Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch, which John was a supporter of, tweeted following his death: “Sad news, John Freeman from the Unicorn in Wollaston died in his sleep.

“He ran the pub for 20 years up until a few weeks ago when he was diagnosed with brain tumours. Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”

John Midwood, pubs officer for Stourbridge and Halesowen CAMRA, said: “I’ve personally known John since he was licensed at The Unicorn about 20 years ago and I have always found him to be very knowledgeable and always knew what he was doing.

“He was well passed retirement age but was a very interested landlord - always concerned about his beer - and always on the ball trying to keep it organised.

“From a CAMRA point-of-view, he has always been very supportive of the local branch.

"He also personally put money out of his own pocket into helping promote his pub as he really just loved doing what he was doing.”

John’s funeral will take place on Thursday February 12, at St Augustine’s Church, Droitwich.