There was an emotional changing of the guard on High Street this week as the owners of the popular, family-run Corkery’s Bar decided to move on after 72 great years behind the bar.

Jerome Corkery had been running the establishment since 2009 with the help of his siblings, Mary and Tadhg, and his parents, Tadhg and Joan, previously took the reins in 1967. The initial proprietor was Jerome’s grandfather in 1946. The family took to Facebook to express their gratitude to their loyal customers.

“A huge thank you to everybody who has supported us over the last 72 years,” they said, “it has been a wonderful life inside the counter of Corkery's Bar where we made good friends!”

Since the news broke, locals have recalled the countless wonderful times and stories shared with friends and staff at the legendary tavern. The well-liked family certainly kept a wonderful establishment and the Killarney Advertiser would like to wish them all the best for the future.

Speaking to the Advertiser yesterday, Mary Corkery passed on her best wishes the new proprietors.

We are all delighted for the guys taking over and we wish them all the very best,” she said. “We will be in for the opening to give our best wishes. Jerome is looking forward to spending time with his parents, enjoying the outdoors and travelling in his semi-retirement as he turned 50 last week. We are delighted to see Corkery's continue after so many years!”

The bar has been taken over by Alan Breen, John O’Sullivan and Kieran O’Leary. Alan also runs the popular K-Town bar with Kieran, who is a former Kerry footballer. The bar is currently closed as the new owners are carrying out some renovations. They have revealed that the pub will be every so slightly rebranded as Corkery’s Sports Bar.