Bootle's The Albion pub closes temporarily after 20 years under Robert Maher
Bootle's The Albion pub closes temporarily after 20 years

Robert Maher, who has run The Albion pub in Bootle for 20 years, is beginning his final week at the helm. The pub will close its doors for approximately four to five weeks for a well-deserved revamp. New proprietors are set to take over when it reopens.

Robert Maher's Departure

Robert, who previously managed The Pacific on Linacre Road and The Cabbage Hall in Anfield, confirmed his departure in a social media post. He thanked customers and the team that supported him over the years. The ECHO previously reported that Robert and his late wife Karen took over The Albion on July 12, 2006, from previous managers Les and Eileen Henderson.

Memories and Gratitude

In his post, Robert reflected on his time at The Albion: "After 20 years of being The Albion's manager, I start my final week. I took over in 2006 with Karen and for the first 10 years we had an amazing time until she was taken from us. The Albion is a great pub with a fantastic local community and over the years the support we received was amazing."

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He recalled special moments, including family coach trips to Blackpool, midweek sports nights with Liverpool and Everton past players, and children's parties held three times a year. He also thanked the pub team, darts pool, football, and golf society members, as well as the bands, trios, duos, singers, and quizmaster Chris who entertained over the years.

Robert expressed appreciation for the support during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed The Albion to remain popular afterwards. He acknowledged the current staff: Phil, Jan, Hannah, Emily, Emma, Annmarie without an e, Anne-marie with an e, and cleaner Eileen, who kept the pub shining for nearly 40 years. He also thanked his nieces and nephews who worked for him as they turned 18.

Future of The Albion

The pub will undergo a revamp and is expected to reopen in four to five weeks under new management. Further updates can be found on The Albion's Facebook page.

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