News / Pubs
Tributes paid to award-winning pub landlord
A popular pub landlord who banned mobile phones in his Redland micropub has died.
Mark Farrell opened Chums on Chandos Road in April 2016. Just two years later, it was named as the CAMRA Bristol & District branch pub of the year.
Prior to opening Chums, Farrell ran pubs including the Three Tuns on St George’s Road near the Central Library and the Plume of Feathers that used to be on Hotwell Road.
Mark Farrell outside Chums ahead of its opening – photo: Martin Booth
In an interview with the Morning Advertiser in 2021, 66-year-old Irishman Farrell said that in his opinion “it’s quite rude that people use their mobile phones in pubs”.
He said: “The idea of a micropub is to have more of a social life and leave your work at home, or leave your work at your workplace, rather than bringing the work with you. Long live the micropub!”
Glen Dawkins (left) of Dawkins and Mark Farrell (right) of Chums celebrate their wins at the Bristol Beer Festival 2018 – photo: Martin Booth
A statement on the Chums website from Andy Williams says: “Due to the sad and untimely death of Mark Farrell, owner and licensee of Chums micropub, we are closed until further notice.
“Thanks to all friends and customers for their kind words and thoughts, which are very much appreciated. I know you will all miss him.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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