Inn the family New chapter for Jolly Colliers after landlord’s sudden death

THE daughter of a popular South Bristol pub landlord, whose sudden death last month shocked the community and pub regulars, has told how she has been touched by the huge amount of support after she and her husband decided to take the pub on themselves.

- Tristan CORK [e-mail]

Kayleigh and Graham Hook have reopened the Jolly Colliers pub on West Street in Bedminster. The pub closed for much of October following the passing of Kevin Johns. His death at the age of just 61 saw many tributes to the popular landlord, who had a passion for grassroots football in the city, come from across Bristol.

The pub faced an uncertain future, but Kayleigh and Graham - who live in Taunton - have taken the decision to step in and reopen the pub. "My dad really loved this place," said Kayleigh. "He was in here for years first as a customer. He had his favourite stool there at the end of the bar.

"He decided to buy the lease back about five years ago because it was facing an uncertain future and I remember he said: 'I can't let it close, I love the place, this my pub. So he took it on himself.