ONE of Stroud’s best-loved dogs has passed away prompting a flood of condolence messages to his owners.


Freddie the chocolate labrador, who died last Monday aged 12 and a half years, was a familiar sight to pub visitors at both the Golden Fleece on Nelson Street and The Crown and Sceptre on Horns Road.

Stroud News and Journal:

Freddie the popular pub dog will be missed by many

He was also ever present in his basket at the Goods Shed Cafe at Stroud train station greeting passengers every morning.

Owner Rodda Thomas posted the following statement to social media on Monday on behalf of himself and Kate, informing friends and customers of the infamous canine's passing:

“It is with great sadness that I must inform you all that Freddie, pub dog of the Golden Fleece and the Crown & Sceptre, as well as the Goods Shed Cafe at Stroud Train Station left us today to chase rabbits in the Heavens.

He left us very gently and felt no pain. He was the best dog in the world. We are gutted.”

Within days the post had attracted over 400 well wishers who posted condolences and shared their favourite memories of the lovable dog.

Stroud News and Journal:

Freddie would often be seen carrying a handbag around the pub

Speaking to the SNJ Rodda said he'd never known another dog like him: “Everyone at the Crown & Sceptre misses him terribly, he’d greet every customer that walked through the door,” he said.

Freddie will be remembered as a good boy and a great walker who loved The Heavens.

He was the perfect pub dog who showed extraordinary patience with children of all ages, even when they were pulling on his ears, or hanging off his tail.

Stroud News and Journal:

Freddie and his son Big Ron, who inherits title of Crown & Sceptre pub dog

He is survived by his son Big Ron, who inherits Fred’s copper rheumatism collar as chain of office for his new position as ‘Crown & Sceptre pub dog’.