It's always disheartening to see a pub close, especially when it's one as popular and iconic as The Star and Garter.
The rowdy Montpelier boozer had a rough-around-the-edges nature and was loved by people all over the city, who saw it as a true Bristol institution.
But it closed early last year following the death of one of its legendary landlords Dutty Ken, whose funeral brought Montpelier, St Paul’s and Easton to a standstill as hundreds turned out to pay tribute.
Following Dutty Ken’s passing in 2017, his daughters and partner Mandie ran the pub for a year, but decided to call time on The Star & Garter on the first anniversary of his death.
Mandie told Bristol Live at the time of closure that "people didn’t come in so much after Ken died," adding that regular customers couldn't bare to visit without seeing Ken there as he was the "life-force of the pub".
However, when many started to fear that the building could be turned into flats at the end of last year, a renowned Bristol party-starter revealed plans to take it on and breathe new life into it.
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Malcolm Haynes has worked on Glastonbury Festival since 1990 and is part of the decision-making team along with Michael and Emily Eavis.
In 2005 he created and programmed the Dance Village - a seven-venue site within the festival which draws the world’s biggest and best DJs year after year - and in 2014 he revamped the area to create Silver Hayes, which is now one of the festival’s most popular late-night areas.
Last year he also oversaw St Pauls Carnival for the first time ever, an event he could not have delivered much better, it was widely agreed.
And in November he announced that his next project would be to regenerate and reopen the pub, joking "apologies to all those who wanted it turned into flats," on his social media pages.
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When is it reopening?
The Star and Garter will reopen on June 1.
On the day there will be something for all ages to enjoy with live music, DJs, magic, poetry, a bouncy castle, kids crafts and food.
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The fun day will take place from 12noon to 10pm in the pub and on the green outside, with free entry all day.
It promises to be a big event for the area and an occasion for the whole of Bristol to celebrate.
Bristol Live has approached Malcolm for comment.
