St Albans pubs have paid tribute to local legend and pub frequenter Kevin Gains, affectionately known as ‘Little Kev’.
Little Kev sadly passed away on Christmas Eve 2024. His funeral will take place at St Saviour’s Church in St Albans on Monday, February 3.
Kev was a champion of real ale and a true legend of St Albans’ vibrant pub scene, with most pub-goers familiar with him.
STALBANSnews spoke to local publicans from across the city to hear more about Kev.
Emma Parkhouse, bar manager at the Great Northern Pub & Kitchen, said: “Little Kev was a stalwart of the St Albans pub scene, known and loved by all who met him.
“While small in stature, he had a big heart and took a real interest in all the staff and customers alike. He’ll be greatly missed.”
Shaun Foley, an ex-bartender at The Boot, said: “When he came into The Boot, he always asked for a specific pint glass. When that glass was unavailable, I remember him coming in one week later and asking if he could put two personal glasses behind the bar – I happily obliged.”
Kevin Yelland, manager at The Farmer’s Boy, said: “He may have been Little Kev, but he will leave a massive hole in the St Albans beer scene and in the lives of all who were privileged to know him.”
Kevin travelled with Kev many times to craft beer festivals in Europe and said that “he was quite the celebrity” due to his mature age in comparison with the usually young crowd.
Ros, who has been the landlady at The Farmer’s Boy for the past 17 years, said: “Little Kev was a regular customer at The Farmer’s Boy and virtually visited us daily on his way to the bus stop to take him home at the end of the day, where he would partake in a half or two, but never a full pint.
“He was a great believer in keeping the concept of cash going and always paid in cash.
“He also used to save his change for us, to save us trips to the bank, which he brought in at regular intervals.
“Always cheerful and chatting to everyone, he will be greatly missed.”
South Herts CAMRA took to Facebook to say: “Anyone who frequents the pubs of St Albans may know Kevin Gains, or ‘Little Kev’ to many of us.
“We’ve lost a good friend, and the city has lost a huge character, who will be much missed. Our deepest condolences to Kev’s family.”
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