THE Gallybagger pop-up pub has re-opened in Chillerton thanks to extensive work by local volunteers and government grants.

The Gallybagger — formerly the Reading Room — was opened last Saturday by Island MP Bob Seely after a community effort to restore the building.

The event to mark the occasion was attended by more than 80 people with entertainment provided by folk group 2TA and local musician David Thorpe.

Chair of the Chillerton and Gatcombe Community Association and vice chair of Chillerton & Gatcombe Parish Council, Cllr Peter J Whiteman hailed the reopening after serious investment had made it possible.

He said: “In July 2020 I was asked by the past chairman, Paul Wells, to project manage a small refurbishment of the Reading Room/Gallybagger as we had about £10,000 available to do tidy up works.

Mr Seely added: “Peter and other volunteers have done an amazing job. The Reading Room has been reborn as the Gallybagger.

"I thank Peter and his team for the time and effort they have put in.”

A small group of volunteers assisted with the work adhering to current restrictions.

The venue undertook a complete rewire, new ceiling in the lounge area, alterations to the bar, reconfiguration of the snooker area and improvements to the toilets and redecoration and new furnishings.

Mr Seely said he would be back behind the bar to do a shift in August alongside Cllr Suzie Ellis.

During the evening, Mr Seely also presented young Chillerton resident, Flora Rider, who was recently named the world's best marmalade maker in a prestigious competition, with a Champion's Award for her outstanding contribution to the community.