In our next in the series of who’s who at Leicester City, Matt Davis interviews Steve Mason, manager of the 1884 bar.
Before you read the question and answers we posed to Steve, I wanted to thank Steve formally via the Trust website on behalf of all Foxes Trust Members for his support in allowing us to hand out leaflets informing fans what we are about and how to join the trust, it is very much appreciated.
How long have you been a Leicester City Supporter for? – Over 10 years now.
And how long have you been in the Pub Trade for? – 25 Years!!
What is the history behind the formation and subsequent opening of the 1884 bar by you?
I was approached by the Chief Executive Tim Davies, to design and build the 1884 Sports Bar for season ticket holders, on a first come first served basis to enjoy a pre/post match drink at no extra cost. It opened at the beginning of the 2004/05 season after taking seven months to set up. My role here is to run the Sports Bar which includes all the hire for the evening functions. (See below for more details regarding functions available).
Until I actually started going into the 1884 bar on a match day, I knew very little about it, can you give fans some details about the 1884 bar on match days?
Firstly let me say it is located between the mega store and the ticket office at the Walkers Stadium.
On a Saturday match day we are open between 12:00 and kick off for season ticket holder only and then again after the game until 19:00 for all home fans. Children are allowed between 12.00 and 13.00 and also after the game. Children are not allowed in at the peak times of 13.00 and 15.00 for safety reasons as it is usually busy…..
On a mid week game we open at 6:30 pm until kick off and then after the game until 10:30 pm for all home fans.
In addition to this we open on a Sunday, for the Sunday Market & are also open prior to away games for supporters to purchase food and drink.
What facilities do you have?
As well as the obvious licensed bar, we show the Premiership games on the wide screen TV’s, we have hot food available, bookmaking facilities, you can buy your match day programme from behind the bar, we issue out team sheets just before the game and we are wheelchair friendly and have ladies and men’s toilet facilities. So you have everything you need to start and end your match day in comfortable surroundings.
Is it true that you can hire the 1884 bar privately, if so, how does this work and what could it be used for?
Yes it is true and it is the ideal venue for any occasion, for example Birthday Celebrations, Football Awards Nights, Anniversaries, Evening Wedding Celebrations, Christmas Parties etc. We are able to provide a nightclub feel for up to 450 guests.
How much does it cost?
The complete venue is currently £350.00 inclusive of security, DJ, bar staff and myself!
I believe it is very popular, is that correct? – Yes I am fully booked every weekend until the end of January 2007.
Who should fans contact if they need more details? – You can contact me, Steve Mason on 07962 651 992