The Plough, a well-known pub in the village of Huddlesford near Lichfield, is set to reopen this Friday following the tragic death of its landlord, Matt O'Gara. Mr O'Gara, believed to be in his 50s, died on Tuesday after an alleged attack at Ricco and Loren bar in Market Street, Lichfield, at 11.25pm on Sunday.
Pub Closed Out of Respect
The Plough has remained closed throughout the week as a mark of respect for their beloved boss. A note taped to the front door informed patrons: "Sorry, we are closed today and will re-open on Friday, May 28. Thank you for understanding at this difficult time. The Plough."
Community Tributes
A single bouquet was placed outside Ricco & Loren in Lichfield city centre. The accompanying card read: "Rest in Peace, Matt. Thinking of you and your loved ones. You were clearly loved by so many in the community. From The Marshalls."
The local business community has also expressed profound sadness. The Drunken Duck posted on Facebook: "Everyone at The Drunken Duck would like to pass on our deepest condolences following the tragic passing of Matt O’Gara from The Plough in Lichfield. Although we didn’t know Matt personally, being in the pub trade, we know how much love, graft and heart go into running a local pub, and how much people like Matt mean to their customers, staff and community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, everyone at The Plough, and all who knew him at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Matt."
Pubwatch Support
Lichfield Business Improvement District, on behalf of Lichfield Pubwatch, offered condolences: "We would like to express our sincere condolences to The Plough and everyone at The Plough, Huddlesford during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you, your family, friends, and all those affected. As a group of licensees, owners, and businesses across Lichfield, we stand together not only in supporting one another through challenging times, but also in our commitment to maintaining safe and welcoming venues. The Plough, please know that your pub community is behind you, and you have our support. We would also like to remind everyone to be kind at this time and support those dealing with the heartbreaking loss and respect their privacy."
Incident Details
A second man, Adam Cooper, was also injured in the Bank Holiday Sunday incident and has since been discharged from hospital. Billy Allison, 36, of Solihull, appeared at Stafford Crown Court today charged with murder and GBH. He is due to go on trial on Monday, October 26.
