AN HISTORIC pub in Hampshire has closed for a major refurbishment which will cost more than £250,000.
The investment at The Funky End, in Station Road, Aldershot, is being undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and resident and licensee Vicrum Gurung, who also operates The Victoria, in Victoria Road.
The refurbishment will completely revamp the pub, increasing its reputation for music and introducing food and coffee to its menus. The pub will also be renamed Tracks, to reflect its music credentials and its location near to Aldershot Railway Station.
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Work at the pub will start on Monday, February 19 with Tracks scheduled to open in late March, creating five new jobs in the process.
The extensive makeover will include the repainting of the building, redecoration of the interior, and the large wooden bar being reduced in size to increase capacity on performance nights, with a high-spec sound system to be installed to improve the acoustics. Also on the list of improvements is a new kitchen and a cellar overhaul.
Vicrum Gurung took over The Funky End in November 2021 when it had been closed for 18 months after the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then he has worked tirelessly to get it back on its feet and carve out a unique position in the town as a music-focused pub.
When it reopens, Tracks will host music four times a week including an acoustic evening, karaoke, an open mic night showcasing local up-and-coming talent and live bands on weekends spanning all genres from music to soul.
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In addition, rock and roll bingo and quiz nights are on the cards.
Vicrum said: "It was sad to see such a prominent pub boarded up. It's a beautiful old building with a lovely atmosphere and a flexible space that lends itself to live performances. Many people were concerned for its future, and we’ve had tremendous support from residents in bringing it back to life. We couldn’t have done it without them. We’re very grateful.
"The investment will help us take the pub to the next level and establish it as one of the best live music venues in the area that all generations of music lovers can enjoy. There’s a lot of excitement about it. One of the regulars even came up with the pub’s new name.”
Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager for Aldershot, Richard Foster, said: "Vicrum is passionate about the pub and has done a tremendous job of revitalising it.
"We’re delighted to be backing him to make it even better. Tracks will be a perfect spot for commuters and visitors to the town centre wanting good food and drink during the day as well as a fantastic place for a great night out.”
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