THE licensee of a traditional Victorian pub has received a prestigious award to mark his 20th anniversary at the venue.

Andrew Tull, who runs The Market Inn in The Lanes in Brighton, received the award from the pub’s owners, Star Pubs and Bars, to recognise his contribution to the community.

Since taking on The Market Inn in 2002, he has created an independent and characterful traditional local in the heart of the city.

He introduced home-cooked food which saw the pub being voted one of the best three Sunday lunch venues in Brighton.

He also set up a darts team, introduced live football and donated food and soft drinks to food banks when the pandemic hit.

Mr Tull said: “The first day I walked into The Market Inn, I knew it was where I wanted to be. It felt like home.

“I had three Brighton pubs and one in London at one stage, but I wanted just to focus on The Market Inn.

“I don’t know where the last 20 years have gone - they have just flown by.  I have no regrets.

“I get an enormous sense of pride when I walk into the pub and see the place full and everyone is having a good time. It fills me with joy. That’s the kick I get out of it and that’s why I have no intention of retiring.”

The Argus: The Market Inn in BrightonThe Market Inn in Brighton

Mr Tull intends to host a party in the pub for next month’s Platinum Jubilee, including putting on a special jubilee ale and a three-course jubilee dinner of traditional British food over the weekend.

He is also keen to find out more about the pub’s history and own royal connections, as well as whether there is truth to a rumour that the pub, once a brothel, was linked to the Royal Pavilion by an underground passage and that the Prince Regent used it to make surreptitious visits.

Mr Tull said: “There was a structural refurbishment of the pub in the late 80s. I can’t find a tunnel so it could well have been filled in at the time. If anyone knows anything, I would love to hear from you - that would be a real anniversary present.”

Sarah Brambley, Star Pubs and Bars area manager, said Mr Tull has “hospitality running through his veins” and is well-deserving of the award.

She said: “He has given The Market Inn his all, creating a fantastic local. The fact that it is busy every night speaks volumes for the friendly atmosphere he and his team have created and the high quality of food and drink served.

“It’s fantastic news for those working and living in the centre of Brighton that he has extended his lease of the pub and has no plans to retire. Cheers Andrew, and here’s to another 20 years.”