The Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist played a key part in fight to save iconic pub
The Apsley Cottage pub in Ardwick with the Apollo Theatre looming behind.
He was a Crumpsall lad. His proud Manchester roots were never forgotten when it came to giving causes close to his heart a helping hand.
Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, bassist with The Stone Roses and Primal Scream – who died this week aged 63 – was campaigning as recently as September to save an iconic Manchester pub.
The historic Apsley Cottage next to the Apollo Theatre in Ardwick has been under threat after closure.
It was a popular refuge for a post-show drink by stars performing at the venue. It was also well used by concert goers. Montages of photographs of bands who had visited the pub cover its walls.
Mani summed up the importance of the Georgian building when he said: “The Apsley Cottage is the most important rock and roll pub in Britain.”
His backing gave huge impetus to the campaign – and, in a new twist, the building may yet survive as a pub. It was recently put on the market for £300,000 after fears it was to be demolished.
Gary “Mani” Mounfield’s brother confirmed he had died at the age of 63 in a statement on Thursday(Image: Ryan Phillips/PA Wire)
Mani was familiar with the pub having nipped in there after Stone Roses performances at the Apollo. Other bands to pop in included Abba, Black Sabbath, Thin Lizzy, members of Queen, Happy Mondays, New Order and Oasis. The Pogues and their entourage recently got through a barrel of Guinness in 40 minutes.
Owners Admiral Taverns decided to dispose of the building. Mani was among rock stars and two of the country’s heritage heavyweights who mounted a bid to save it. SAVE Britain’s Heritage and the Georgian Group are giving their clout to an application to get the building listed.
A group of people with connections to Ardwick and the Apsley Cottage pub, supported by heritage organisations, have submitted a listed building application to save the building. Internationally renowned in rock music, the pub is also an attractive relic of Georgian Ardwick, then one of the most wealthy and prominent suburbs of the world’s first industrial city. The Apsley Cottage’s proximity to the Manchester Apollo stage door led to a host of famous musicians visiting over the decades.
Drummer and vocalist with Doves, Andy Williams, joined Mani in calling for the pub to be saved when he said: “The Apsley cottage has stood as a beloved cornerstone of the Manchester community for nearly 200 years, holding profound significance for local residents, musicians, Apollo concert goers and all who cherish its rich history.”
As Manchester council said in their tribute to Mani: from the landmark Spike Island gig to the Heaton Park reunion shows that brought thousands together, Mani’s influence went far beyond music. He embodied the spirit of Manchester: creative, bold, and unafraid to break boundaries.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who loved him,” the town hall added. “The city’s heart has skipped a beat, but his legacy will live on in every chord that echoes through Manchester.”