The owner of the “best family pub in London” has died.
George Karageorgis owned the Clissold Arms in East Finchley, which played host to the first- and last-ever gigs played by world-famous rock band the Kinks.
He died on Saturday (January 7) following a short illness, aged 57.
Clissold Arms events manager Sonia Pereira said: “At this very difficult time we are thinking of his family, the Clissold Arms team and the huge network of people who were proud to call him a friend.
My deepest sympathies to his family - Rest In Peace @george_clissold Love Dave pic.twitter.com/T3uBtOjMLv
— Dave Davies (@davedavieskinks) 9 January 2017
“He was incredibly loved and will be forever missed.
“Details of his funeral will be posted on the Clissold Arms Facebook page and we will send a further newsletter email when they are confirmed.
“Thank you for your support and thank you for being part of our community, which meant so much to George.”
Kinks guitarist Dave Davies, who played his band’s first gig at the venue in 1960 and their last in 1996, paid tribute over Twitter.
Our wonderful @george_clissold owner of @clissoldarms who died yesterday ! With him for Xmas day wonderful man ! pic.twitter.com/LTnNk5lJU3
— Michelle Collins (@missmcollins) 8 January 2017
He gave his “deepest sympathy” to Mr Karageorgis’ family and hoped he would “rest in peace”.
EastEnders actress Michelle Collins posted a picture of herself with the owner at Christmas on Twitter, calling him “our wonderful George”.
Mr Karageorgis had owned the Clissold Arms since November 2009.
The pub was named Best Family Pub in London and the South East in both 2014-15 and 2015-16.
Bookings at the Clissold Arms will not be affected, though Ms Pereira said restaurant and pub services may be disrupted.
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