The Horns pub best memories amid uncertain future

The Horns announced the “heartbreaking” news on Tuesday that it had closed on Sunday, October 30 “for the last time”.

The pub’s Jane Giles subsequently posted on social media that she was not giving up on the venue yet following the “extraordinary support” received and was due to meet the brewery yesterday (October 4).

Read more: The Horns: 'We're still fighting' amid 'extraordinary' closure response

With The Horns’ facing an uncertain future though, we asked you to tell us about your memories of the pub. You responded in your hundreds, with many hoping that it can still be saved.

Jorge Morales posted this picture and said: “So many eves. So many friends. Lots of music.”

Jorge Morales performing. (Image: Jorge Morales)

Another musician, Pritee Almeida, wrote: "This picture right here was taken by THE Howard Keys....it was an open mic night which producers from The Voice attended in May 2016 I think. I was asked to attend the auditions at stage 3 of the process thereafter...

“This picture is 1 of many taken at The Horns of me performing over the years....

Pritee Almeida aka Big Mama Funk and guitarist Gary Mullins. (Image: Howard Keys / Pritee Almeida)

“If it wasn't for Denis Cook back in 2003 and The Horns, Big Mama Funk probably wouldn't of been born & I wouldn't be half the performer I am to day....nor would I be working with half the musos I work with today...it was an iconic venue that gave many their 1st chances.”

The Zimmermen performing at The Horns last month. (Image: Bryan Davey)

Tommy Pool said: “Played a good handful of gigs here with my band Valens.

“The highlight of my evenings was providing a spontaneous jam at the end of the show so that Pete Curtis could come and round off the night. Great bloke!

“Sad to see this place go. I’ve enjoyed many nights here with many great people!

“The picture shows me accidentally tripping Julian over during our set! My bad!"

Tommy Pool accidentally tripping band-mate Julian over. (Image: Sammi Pose Photography / Tommy Pool)

Rick Baker said: “We think it's outrageous that Jane's having to close the Horns. It's the only place left in Watford that supports live music. There really should be a grant available to get these small venues back on their feet after the pandemic and through the current cost of living crisis. We'll have nothing if we lose these places.”

Rick Baker and his band Sid Sideboard and the Chairs have performed at the Horns dozens of times. (Image: Rick Baker)

Sam Biggerstaff posted this picture and wrote: “Had many a great night in the Horns, the best seeing Chas and Dave back in the early 2000’s. Such a shame that this great pub and venue has been lost.”

Sam Biggerstaff with the late Chas Hodges. (Image: Sam Biggerstaff)

Tracey Wills said: “Have had so many good evenings shared with friends at the Horns I don’t want to lose the only venue us over 50s can attend in Watford ! It’s part of our history !!! Heartbroken”

Tracey Wills enjoying a night out at The Horns (Image: Tracey Wills)

One reader said: “Unbelievable ! To say I’m shocked is an understatement! An amazing live music venue - a place for the more mature to go to - So many memories over so many years created here, friendships formed, local Bands enjoyed … please someone step in and save The Horns ! It would be a very great loss to Watford ……"

Another commented: “Such a vital venue for all kinds of musicians and for folk who like to see live bands. Bit by bit our pubs and music venues are going - its just not right. The proprietors at the Horns have done so much to keep it open over Covid etc - I truly hope the decision to close can be reversed.

The Horns in the winter snow. (Image: Luke Allen)