Tributes paid to owner of Cavendish Arms pub Brian 'Barney' Leyland after death aged 71
“Barney was a wonderful kind and caring man with one hell of a sense of humour...”
Tributes have been paid to the boss of a popular pub and restaurant following his death at the age of 71.
The Cavendish Arms in Brindle shared the news on Facebook, saying co-owner Brian ‘Barney’ Leyland had sadly passed away.
In a statement, the pub said: “We are very saddened to inform you of the passing of Brian ‘Barney’ Leyland, our much loved colleague, friend and boss.
“The thoughts of everyone on our team are with Bernadeen and the family at this difficult time.
“Barney, together with Nick, came to The Cavendish in 2014 and worked with a great team to build The Cavendish Arms into what it is today.
“Barney had a great welcome for all our customers, and was never short of good humour and wit.
“Every member of the team at The Cavendish appreciate what a privilege it was to work alongside such a warm, kind and friendly leader.
“He will be truly missed and never forgotten.”
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Barney took over The Cavendish Arms with co-owner and business partner Nick White in 2014, and the pair established the venue as a much-loved and highly-rated pub and restaurant.
Over the past decade, The Cavendish has undergone a number of changes, including the construction of an orangery during the Covid pandemic.
Hundreds of tributes have been paid to Barney, with friends, colleagues and and customers remembering his warm and welcoming presence, good humour and kind and caring nature.
“Barney was a wonderful kind and caring man with one hell of a sense of humour,” said one tribute. “My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.”
“Incredibly sad news for the Brindle and Cavendish community,” said another. “Barney was always the friendly face of the Cavendish and of course our Shepherd at the Inn, entertaining everyone on the Nativity walk to Church on Christmas Eve. My thoughts are with Barney’s family.”
Another added: “Barney was a true gentleman and always had a smile and time for a chat. A beautiful person. He will be sadly missed.”
You can read more tributes to Barney on The Cavendish Arm’s Facebook page.