Circa 1875 the Belgravia stood on the corner of Spinney Hill Roadd and Charnwood Sreett. Early directories from 1875-90 lists the pub on Charnwood Street.
J Hallam builder was victualler then Bates & Bishell were the owners. LBM Brewery purchased the pub from Bates & Bishell in March 1891.
In 1900, LBM embarked on major alterations to the Belgravia, erecting a ‘shed’ 48ft x 14ft with different entrances to house customers whilst the work took place. This caused problems for nearby residents, who brought it to the notice of the licensing authorities. It was found that the structure was not licensed and no application had been made to what in effect were a new premises. The renewal of the Belgravia’s licence was therefore objected to.
The owners tried to argue that the new structure was used temporarily, which resulted in advice to the court from the architect that the old building was not safe whilst work was being carried out. The court decided it was wholly unsatisfactory state of affairs, the new entrances to be blocked up with fencing erected around the new structure. The licence would be revived when deemed safe by police.
John Popple was occupying the premises whilst the major refit was going on in 1900. Popple had been victualler for over a decade. A staunch Tory, in 1900 he gave £20 to Leicester Royal Infirmary, and he represented the Conservatives in the municipal elections.
On completion of the alterations, the licence passed to William Henry (Harry) Bailey, a sporting all-rounder who had played over 100 games for Leicester Fosse, and also appeared for Leicestershire County Cricket Club. Harry played left back from 1891, the same year he represented Leicestershire. His last appearance was in 1899 – according to The Fox’s Alphabet as an emergency goalkeeper.
Harry Bailey kept the Belgravia for about three years.
From the onset, the Belgravia was rarely out of the newspapers, with far too many to report here. The Leicester Chronicle, Journal, Mercury, Daily Post and Guardian all give instances of cases.
A brief summery of a few: March 1875, ex employee breaks into cellar, steals three pints of ale. November 1876, a drunk refused to leave. June 1877, a stolen goods case. October 1877, Drunk and Disorderly. January 188, stealing a bag case, May 1883, refusing to leave. March 1884, Drunk and Disorderly. October 1884, stolen locket. November 1884, assault case. August 1885. Drunk &and Disorderly, and fighting. September 1885, breaking pub glass. September 1887; worse for drink. March 1891, fighting in pub. February 1897, highway robbery on customer on way home after leaving Belgravia.
The list goes on, as well as inquests held here, the Belgravia was prominent in bringing attention to itself.
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