The famous watering hole on the Lower Strand was irreparably damaged in the blast early on Saturday morning, August 7, 2004.
Mercifully nobody was injured in the explosion but the pub, alas, had to be tumbled on Tuesday, August 10. It marked the end of an era for a famous local boozer which had served generations of punters from the 1920s.
The ‘Journal’ photographer visited the pub in July 2004, just weeks before the blast, and captured its unique ambience for posterity.
1. Regulars enjoying the company and the crack in the Alleyman's in July 2004.
Regulars enjoying the company and the crack in the Alleyman's in July 2004. Photo: Archive
2. Punters enjoying a pint and good company while watching a match in the Alleyman's.
Punters enjoying a pint and good company while watching a match in the Alleyman's. Photo: Archive
3. Regulars enjoying the company and the crack in the Alleyman's in July 2004.
Regulars enjoying the company and the crack in the Alleyman's in July 2004. Photo: Archive
4. Punters enjoying a pint in the Alleyman's a month before it was destroyed in a gas explosion.
Punters enjoying a pint in the Alleyman's a month before it was destroyed in a gas explosion. Photo: Archive