Support for historic Cauliflower pub after opening delayed

Fans of the historic Cauliflower pub have rallied behind its owners after the opening was delayed.

The pub in Ilford High Road had hoped to open on Friday, but was forced to postpone after refurbishment work could not be fully completed in time.

Owner Reiss Matto said: “We’ve put so much effort in. We don’t want to open it half-heartedly.”

While he did not want to set a new date, Reiss said people could keep an eye on the pub’s Facebook page.

“We’re almost finished – then we will open the doors,” he told the Recorder.

An opening weekend had been planned with former favourites Exposé listed to perform on Saturday.

On the band’s Facebook, Tracey Davies Kray said: “Let’s get behind them and hope they can sort it all out ready for the next opening night.”

And Amanda Green said: “Be nicer to see it all properly finished anyway.”

The 18-year-old took over the Victorian gin palace last November – vowing to return it to its “former glory”.

The pub will also operate as a hotel, with 26 rooms in the upper floors.

In June, the building was granted listed status by English Heritage following a campaign by residents to protect the building.

The council had previously added it to its local list and served a notice to prevent the building being demolished.