MP Opens Gallybagger Pop-Up Pub In Chillerton

Friday, 6 August 2021 06:00

The Gallybagger pop-up pub has re-opened in Chillerton thanks to extensive work by local volunteers and Government grants.

The Gallybagger (formerly the Reading Room) on Main Road was opened last Saturday by Island MP, Bob Seely after a community effort to restore the building.

Mr Seely said:

“Peter and other volunteers have done an amazing job. The Reading Room has been reborn as the Gallybagger. I thank Peter and his team for the time and effort they have put in.”

Chair of the Chillerton and Gatcombe Community Association and Vice Chair of Chillerton & Gatcombe Parish Council, Cllr Peter J Whiteman, said:

“In July 2020 I was asked by the past Chairman Paul Wells to project manage a small refurbishment of the Reading Room/Gallybagger as we had about £10k available to do tidy up works.

“A small bunch of volunteers got together under the current restrictions and started the works, but once we got underway it was apparent it needed a complete rewire, new ceiling in the lounge area, alterations to the bar, reconfiguration of the snooker area and improvements to the toilets and redecoration and new furnishings — all on a limited budget.

“We were extremely lucky as we found out that the Government’s Covid grants were available which meant we could invest in our buildings including our Village Hall to improve our facilities for our residents and this is what we have done.

“It’s been a long journey for me personally and I am pleased to say we now have created a Chillerton Village Hub at the Gallybagger Inn for the community and for everybody to enjoy.”

The event was attended by over 80 people with entertainment provided by folk group 2TA and local musician David Thorpe with a magic show by Huxley Magic.

Mr Seely said he would be back behind the bar to do a shift in August alongside Cllr Suzie Ellis.

Cllr Ellis said:

“I would like to extend my thanks to Peter and members of the CGCA team, and congratulate them on the wonderful work they have done on ‘The Gallybagger’ – I am sure it will prove to be a real asset for the community of Chillerton and Gatcombe, and I am looking forward to my bar shift with Bob!”

During the evening, Bob also presented young Chillerton resident, Flora Rider, who was recently named the world's best marmalade maker in a prestigious competition, with a Champion's Award for her outstanding contribution to the community.

MP Opens Gallybagger Pop-Up Pub In Chillerton

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