Jeremy Clarkson announced the brief closure of his pub, The Farmer’s Dog, for a very important reason. The Clarkson’s Farm star shut down his country boozer for one night to celebrate with 170 members of staff, throwing a huge party in the grounds – complete with lashings of Jeremy’s Hawkstone beer. A huge stage was set up for Jeremy to make an emotional announcement ahead of the festivities.

The pub announced on its Instagram account: “We shut the pub for a night and took some time to celebrate with the 170 wonderful people who make it all happen at The Dog, in the kitchens, the pub, Hops&Chops and the Diddly Squat Farm Shop – in the tent as well as in the prep kitchen and the team from the car parks, and alongside some of our friends from Hawkstone who we rely on to keep our many bars flowing.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to this wonderful team for making a visit to The Dog so special.”

The post added the hashtag #BackBritishFarmingDrinkHawkstone.

On stage, Jeremy told the gathered crowd of staff: “Enjoy the evening. You are all absolute superstars. Thank you. Oh, and also the food’s very good! But really, enjoy your evenings, guys.”

Fans rushed to support the pair, with one writing: “Well deserved to all the team. Other employers take note!”

Someone else said: “Look after your team and the team looks after you. Simples. Well done to you all.”

A third echoed: “Absolutely fantastic and hope everyone had a great time!”