Fundraisers are being organised across Southampton in the next two months by musicians, and others, to help the Platform Tavern get back up and running after a night-time fire in the bar.
A number of local bands have already signed up… Chicago 9, the Platform Posse, and the Pete Harris Blues Band – all Platform regulars – together with the amazing Black Kat Boppers all play the Brook on 23 November.
On 25 November The Slack 5, Pegasuses, and Daddy Witch all play the Design Chapel in the Old Cemetery. Interesting Wallpaper, The Postmen, and Sturmey Archers are playing at Whiskey Blue on December 1.
On 5 October after closing time, an electrical fire broke out, and students living next door raised the alarm allowing Hampshire fire and Rescue to control and put the fire out. Stewart Cross, the landlord arrived on the scene to secure it.
The actual fire damage is limited to the area around the electrics, but the smoke damage is extensive, leaving a layer of soot and ash over all three floors – not just the bar, but the kitchens and flat above – and the unmistakable smell of burning and char. 
“I’ll meet you at the pub,” Stewart said when I called about doing this article. It was the first time I’d ever heard it called ‘the pub’. Universally, it’s just called The Platform, and has been since 1873. But then Stewart would call it ‘the pub’ – its his pub, and has been for a quarter of a century.
I‘m glad he can fit me in for a quick chat. Since the fire he has been overwhelmed with messages of support, condolences and offers of help.
As well as the fundraisers, a host of crafts people are offering to put in the work to get it up and running again, showing how much people think of this unique landmark in Southampton’s heritage and cultural scene.
The Platform is built onto the 14th Century town walls, where the sea flowed in at high tide before the eastern quay was built in the early 19th Century. The original walls are exposed inside. It’s name, The Platform Tavern, comes from the quay outside the nearby God’s House Tower, which supported a gun battery.
In the early 20th century, it was home to James McGrady, the first class steward on the Titanic.
Over the years it has played host to a long list of touring bands and musicians – for me Babajack, Coulter Wall and Portsmouth-born internationally-known bluesman, Ian Siegal, top the list – who have metaphorically set fire to the place.
The Platform has supported a host of local bands, and a full posse of regulars, feeding into the enthusiasm to get it back on track.
Tickets for all the gigs can be bought by clicking on the gig posters below. The Whiskey Blue event is free with donations required.
Photos by Charlie Hislop
- In Common is not for profit. We rely on donations from readers to keep the site running. Could you help to support us for as little as 25p a week? Please help us to carry on offering independent grass roots media. Visit: https://www.patreon.com/incommonsoton
