If the fire at The John Bull has proved one thing, it’s just how much the historic pub means to the people of Wigan.
Less than 24 hours after flames ripped through one of the town’s best-loved landmarks, a fundraiser set up by Wigan singer-songwriter Joe Astley had already raised more than £6,000 after originally setting a target of just £800. But it’s not just donations that have been coming in. Fellow pubs, local businesses and residents have all been asking the same question: how can we help?
The fire broke out at around 4am on Tuesday, with four fire engines called to the scene. Thankfully, nobody was injured, and Thwaites Brewery has already confirmed its intention to restore the much-loved pub.
Joe launched the fundraiser to support Victoria, Pete and the rest of the John Bull team as they begin the long road to recovery.
On the fundraising page, he wrote: “The John Bull Chop House is so much more than a pub. It is a way of life. It is a family. It is a beacon of our great and historic town and one of the oldest buildings in Wigan. The impact of the fire will no doubt hit many very hard. This is a fundraiser to help Victoria, Pete, Mark, Chris, Natasha, Adam and all the people that work so hard to make it the greatest pub on Earth.
“Save the John Bull.”
The support has stretched far beyond the fundraising page.
Neighbouring pub The Wiend was among the first to offer its backing. Owner Michael Pagett praised Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Greater Manchester Police and Wigan Council for their response to the fire, saying firefighters prevented what could have been an even bigger disaster. Despite suffering minor damage to his own premises, he also thanked Victoria, Pete and Thwaites Brewery for their support, adding: “We’ll pay this kindness back, believe me.”
Wigan Central described The John Bull as “a Wigan institution”, saying: “Some pubs are simply buildings with beer, but not the Bull. It is a Wigan institution. Many of you will have had drinks – if not your first ever drink – there throughout the years.”
Wigan Brewhouse also paid tribute, describing the pub as “part of the fabric of our town” and “a place filled with community, warmth and countless memories.”
Businesses have been just as keen to lend a hand. Grant’s Bulldog Forge has offered to help replace furniture when the time comes, while Mayor Roofing has pledged to help with roofing work, the clean-up and whatever else is needed to help get the pub back on its feet. Other businesses have also been encouraging people to donate or simply offering their services if they’re needed.
Victoria and Pete have thanked customers for their incredible support, promising: “We will recover from this, and we’ll be back pouring your favourite ales before we know it.”
For generations, The John Bull has been far more than somewhere to enjoy a pint. Housed in one of Wigan’s oldest surviving buildings, the Grade II-listed pub has a history stretching back more than 300 years. Over the centuries the building has served a variety of purposes, including cottages, stables and even a slaughterhouse, before becoming the much-loved pub it is today.
The John Bull is owned by Thwaites Brewery, but for many Wiganers it has long been synonymous with one family. Harold and Margaret took on the tenancy in the late 1970s, building the pub into one of the town’s best-loved locals. Today, their daughter Victoria continues that legacy alongside Pete, welcoming regulars and newcomers alike.
Famous for its character, its unrivalled jukebox and its award-winning ales, the John Bull is a true Wigan institution. Earlier this year it was also chosen by Wigan Athletic as the venue to launch the club’s new home kit, a fitting tribute to the place it holds in the town’s heart.
The road back won’t be easy, but if the last 24 hours have shown anything, it’s that The John Bull won’t be making that journey alone.
Long live The John Bull.
