The Star & Garter, situated in the city’s Montpelier suburb, has been vacant since it closed following the death of its beloved licensee. Louis Hayles - known as “Dutty Ken” by regulars at the graffiti-covered pub - passed away in February 2017, and the pub closed its doors just a year after.
However, the pub will soon be reopened by event organiser Malcom Haynes, according to local newspaper Bristol Live.
Haynes orchestrated the 50th edition of Bristol’s annual St Paul's Carnival, a celebration of Caribbean culture, last year, and has been heavily involved in organising the Glastonbury Festival since 1990.
Spring reopening
“I've been asked to run the legendary Star & Garter pub with my family,” he announced on his Facebook page.
Haynes added that the pub would reopen in the spring, following renovation to restore the pub to its former glory.
"It requires a bit of renovation so we can keep the vibe the same. Reopening in the spring. Apologies to all those who wanted it turned into flats,” he said.
Heart of the community
The pub has been at the heart of the city’s African-Caribbean community and music scene for decades.
It fostered the careers of reggae musicians including DJ Derek, who performed reggae and ska sets at Glastonbury before passing away in 2015.
Bristolian Grant Marshall was inspired to form his successful trip hop group Massive Attack in 1998 after watching DJ Derek play at the pub.
Peter Bridle, Bristol Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) pubs officer, told The Morning Advertiser the branch was delighted to see the community pub saved.
“Like the rest of the UK, the Bristol area has seen many pubs close in recent times - many of which we believe could have been viable with the right trading conditions.
“It will be fantastic to see the Star & Garter reopened and restored at the heart of its community. I think many people thought it had been lost for good."