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Star & Garter pub reopens with huge party
A host of special guests helped celebrate the reopening of a much-loved Bristol pub.
The Star & Garter in Montpelier reopened under new ownership with a huge all-day party on Saturday, which saw the celebrations spill outside to the green opposite the pub.
“When a local pub reopens you expect a small event, magic tricks, raffle, music,” tweeted one guest, musician Jolene.
is needed now More than ever
“The Star & Garter had that, except Dynamo doing magic tricks, Dave Chappelle doing the raffle and a surprise set by Damian Marley. Not to mention Roni Size on decks. Bristol ❤️”
The Star & Garter’s new owner, Malcolm Haynes, is an experienced music promoter who was a key figure in the successful return of St Paul’s Carnival in 2018.
He has taken over the pub from the legendary Dutty Ken, who died in 2017, and more than doubled its capacity.
Roni Size said: “I think people will be pleased with how little its changed. Bristol is a sound system city and this is a sound system pub.
“I’ve been going to the Star & Garter since I was 11 years old. My aunty used to work behind the bar so we had fizzy drinks and crisps on tap.
“I remember going through DJ Derek’s box looking for old James Brown records. Music was the heartbeat of the pub and we intend to keep that heartbeat pumping.”
Haynes added: “As a resident of this diverse city, I am proud to be bringing the Star & Garter back to the local community.
“This is a venue full of music history that has always welcomed all-comers and we are looking forward to reinstating the vibe of legendary former landlord and friend, Dutty Ken.”
Main photo by Pete Insole
Read more: Tributes paid to Dutty Ken
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