Wiganers show their support and concern after major fire at The John Bull Chophouse
A fund-raising appeal has been launched in the aftermath of a blaze at an historic Wigan pub.
The John Bull Chophouse, in Wigan town centre, was dubbed the “greatest pub on Earth” by the founder of the appeal.
Firefighters were called to Coopers Row at 4am on Tuesday and worked throughout the night to bring the fire under control.
By 8.35am the fire was successfully extinguished, but not without major damage to the grade II-listed building.
An online fund-raising appeal has now been set up by local Joe Astley with the goal of saving the pub and supporting the people who work there.
He said: “The John Bull Chophouse 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.
"This is a fund-raiser to help Victoria, Pete, Mark, Chris, Natasha, Adam and all the people that work hard to make it the greatest pub on Earth. Save the John Bull.”
The fund-raiser has a goal of £800 and has already received £280 in donations.
Pub-goers and local businesses have come together to express their upset and sadness at the damage to the popular business.
Gerry-Jo Wilkins wrote on Wigan Today’s Facebook page: “I hope it can be repaired, this a true staple for Wigan. John Bull has always been a good pub.”
Wendy Liptrot wrote: “Hope it lives on to pull another pint. Full of history and character and most certainly the best pub in Wigan.”
Another person commented: “The best pub in Wigan. I really hope that the damage to the building can be repaired and that all of the staff are okay.”
Many highlighted the famous jukebox at the pub and hoped that was not too badly affected by the fire.
Gill Harland wrote: “It’s a much loved venue and jukebox by many generations (you don’t get that often).”
Another person said: “The best pub in Wigan! Been going there for 44 years.”
Donations to the fund-raising appeal can be made by visiting gofund.me/6ffa1d19d.