‘It feels like a death’: Heartbroken John Bull landlords thank Wigan after overwhelming support
The landlords of The John Bull Chop House have spoken publicly for the first time since the devastating fire that tore through the historic Wigan pub, describing the ordeal as feeling “like a death” while thanking the town for its extraordinary support.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Victoria and Pete admitted they are still struggling to come to terms with what has happened.
“The only way I can describe how I feel is like the living daylights have been kicked out of me,” Victoria wrote.
“It feels like a death. A catastrophe. All of the worst things wrapped up into one enormous nightmare. The John Bull is a living thing. It isn’t anybody’s pub. It belongs to all of us.”
The couple said they have been overwhelmed by the thousands of messages, offers of help and fundraising efforts that have followed Tuesday’s fire.
“I honestly thought I might have got myself together enough by now to reply to all the messages, texts, offers of help and the general outpouring of love we’ve received,” Victoria said. “However, after listening to Joe Astley’s amazing interview on Radio Manchester this morning, it appears I’m still not quite there.
“I just want to thank everybody again, so much, for absolutely everything.”
She paid special tribute to neighbouring businesses and everyone who has offered practical help since the fire.
“A special shout-out to my neighbours and all the people who have selflessly offered help and their services, you’ve all been incredible.”
Victoria also praised the team at Wigan Council’s Central Watch control room, whose quick thinking is believed to have prevented an even greater tragedy.
“I think we all need to raise a massive glass to the guys at Central Watch, who spotted the person responsible and had the fire service on their way within minutes. I’ve since been told that if it had been any longer, literally any longer, our pub would probably have been gone forever. So thank you doesn’t even begin to cover it. You saved the pub and gave us a chance to keep it going.”
She also thanked Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service for their response, joking that “even in such hideous circumstances, it didn’t go unnoticed that you were all quite fit,” before thanking Greater Manchester Police for making a swift arrest.
Victoria said she has been left speechless by the success of the fundraising efforts, including the GoFundMe appeal launched by Wigan singer-songwriter Joe Astley, which has already raised thousands of pounds. She also thanked the musicians who regularly perform at the John Bull, revealing they are already organising a fundraising event to support the pub.
For Victoria, however, the John Bull is much more than bricks and mortar. “Many of you know this place is my life and has been for 50 years,” she wrote.
“I swear we will be back.
“We’re battered, broken, knackered and absolutely devastated.
“Thank you for loving the John Bull as much as we do.
“Long live the John Bull.”
The John Bull Chop House was badly damaged in a fire during the early hours of Tuesday morning. Nobody was injured, and owners Thwaites Brewery have confirmed they intend to restore the historic pub.
In the days since the fire, thousands of pounds have been raised through a community fundraiser, while businesses, neighbouring pubs and residents have all offered practical help as the much-loved Wigan landmark begins its road to recovery.
