A tribute to Ian Lock, publican, campaigner, and friend, by Paul Crossman and Dawn Hopkins, chair and vice-chair of the Campaign for Pubs. Ian died suddenly a few weeks ago.
Last week, our campaign director, Greg Mulholland, attended Ian’s funeral and joined family and friends in paying tribute to Ian, who for years has run pubs, campaigned to support and save pubs, and helped countless other licensees with advice and support.
Ian’s long and proud history of running pubs and campaigning for them was a key theme of the tributes, as well as Ian’s love for family, friends, and his passion for exploring the UK (and its pubs!).
Having campaigned with Licensees Supporting Licensees, Protect Pubs, and supporting the Fair Deal for Your Local campaign, Ian was instrumental in establishing the Campaign for Pubs in 2020 and became its first secretary, as well as being a director. Ian shared the vision that we need an organisation that brings together all passionate pub lovers from both sides of the bar who want to support, protect, and promote pubs and our unique pub culture.
Ian’s loss has been a shock to many publicans and pub campaigners and we have been touched by all the messages and tributes, hearing from many publicans and communities who Ian helped, often quietly but tirelessly.
Ian’s passion for pubs was inspirational and, despite how hard he worked (as publicans do!), he still found time to assist and advise others. We have shared messages with Ian’s family, who very much appreciate the many tributes and kind words about all he did, much of which they did not know about, which was typical of Ian who never sought any personal praise for the work he did.
The Campaign for Pubs will always value Ian’s contribution. We have posted this tribute but will also find a way to properly remember Ian. Most importantly, we will continue to campaign for pubs, as Ian’s legacy.
Rest in peace, Ian. We join others in saying thank you and raising a glass to you tonight.
