The Plough pub in Harborne, Birmingham, closed its doors this afternoon as staff got together to remember a ‘cherished colleague’ – who tragically died earlier this year
A much-loved pub in the heart of a busy city has closed its doors to honour a young colleague who was killed whilst walking her dog earlier this year.
Much-loved pub The Plough in Birmingham decided against pulling pints on Saturday, September 21, as staff chose to come together and celebrate the life of their treasured coworker, Lucy Atkins. The 20-year-old was struck by a car while walking her dog Simba on West Boulevard in Quinton – leaving the local community shocked and saddened.
The tragic incident took place around 8:45am on Monday, June 24, as Lucy walked Simba along Barnes Hill and Quinton Road West. During her summer breaks from university, Lucy used to work at The Plough, becoming a well-known and loved presence at the bar. Her colleagues have been left heartbroken by the loss and are gathering today to bid an affectionate farewell to Lucy, who locals have described as “beautiful,” the Daily Star reports.
In an emotional message that reached its 10,000 Facebook followers, The Plough announced it would be closed for several hours to say goodbye, saying: “This Saturday 21st September, The Plough will be closed from 2pm-4pm, so our team can come together to say goodbye to a cherished colleague and dear friend.”
Tragedy struck this summer as both Lucy and her devoted dog Simba passed away. Her work colleagues are set to honour her life this weekend. Having been a cherished part of the team for years, Lucy rejoined during her summer break from an outstanding first year at uni, where she continued spreading joy and forming lasting bonds.
The pub said in a heartwarming tribute: “Lucy’s bright spirit, her unwavering optimism, and her gift for making everyone around her feel seen and loved will forever be missed. She truly was part of the Plough family, and we are heartbroken to have lost one of our own so soon. We hope you understand our need to close during this time, as we come together to give Lucy the farewell she truly deserves. Lucy, we miss you deeply-thank you for everything you brought into our lives.” Voices from the online community echoed the love, describing Lucy as “happy and positive”, and remarkable for her wisdom despite her young age.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson earlier made an appeal following the tragedy, writing: “We’re particularly interested in hearing from anybody who was travelling in the area and has dash cam footage. You can contact us via Live Chat on our website, or by calling 101, and quote log 857 of 24/6/24. You can also email SCIU@westmidlands.police.uk.”
