A beloved pub, The Winslow Hotel, is closing its doors, leaving a void in the hearts of Everton fans and the community. This iconic establishment, a fixture on Goodison Road since the 1880s, has witnessed decades of footballing history and has been a haven for fans on matchdays. But with Everton's move to a new stadium, the pub's fate was sealed.
Dave Bond, the landlord, shares a heartfelt story of loss. He describes how the move took the "soul" from the area, leaving a gaping hole in the community. The pub, once bustling with fans, now echoes with silence, a stark contrast to its vibrant past. Bond's customer base, primarily Everton supporters, dwindled after the men's team relocated, and the pub's attempts to adapt, including providing transportation to the new stadium, fell short.
"It's a sad reality," Bond laments. "Goodison Park was the heart and soul of L4, and the fans were the lifeblood of this place. When they left, a part of us went with them."
The Winslow's efforts to stay afloat were admirable, but the revenue loss was insurmountable. Despite Everton Women's matches at Goodison Park, the attendance numbers couldn't match the men's team's legacy. Bond's reliance on matchday footfall was evident, and without it, the pub's future was uncertain.
Fans like Donal Morgan express their sorrow, remembering the pub's rich history and the presence of legendary players. The new stadium, though impressive, lacks the character and stories that The Winslow held.
Bond's love for Everton began at a young age, inspired by stories of Dixie Dean, whose face graces the pub's sign. Legends speak of Dean and other Everton players enjoying a quick drink at the pub during halftime, a tradition that adds to the pub's charm.
"My affection for Everton grew through the faint whispers of Radio Merseyside on my mother's radio in Ireland," Bond reminisces. "It was a love affair that began with a faint signal and a young boy's imagination."
As The Winslow Hotel bids farewell, it leaves behind a legacy and a community in mourning. The impact of Everton's move extends beyond the pitch, affecting the very fabric of the neighborhood. A chapter closes, but the memories and stories of this beloved pub will live on.
