Why managing this isolated UK pub will net you a kingdom

A centuries-old pub on a tiny island off the coast of the UK is looking for a new manager - and it comes with a crown.

The Ship Inn on Piel Island has been standing for at least 300 years, according to the local borough's website.

Its manager, who holds other unique responsibilities, has for centuries been crowned the "King of Piel" in a ceremony of uncertain origin, "in which they sit in an ancient chair, wearing a helmet and holding a sword while alcohol is poured over their head", the site states.

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Looking after the sword and helmet are part of the inn manager's duties.

The island can also boast of the "Knights of Piel", who are apparently anointed in similar fashion.

In somewhat retrograde language, the "aristocracy" of the island were historically expected to be "a free drinker and smoker and lover of the female sex" - though in more recent decades, women have also been "crowned".

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And now, the council is looking for somebody to fill the role, the BBC has reported.

However, while the job might sound fun, it takes a particular type to enjoy it, with high levels of commitment required - and a lot of isolation to endure.

Ferry services keep the 50-acre island in touch with the mainland, with tourists coming not just for the pub, but also to survey the older ruins of a castle and an abbey there.