TRIBUTES have been paid to a “special” former landlord of two Taunton pubs.

Mike Merrick, the former landlord of The Merry Monk and The Half Moon Inn, died last week, on Tuesday, April 11, and staff at the Merry Monk have paid their tributes to “celebrate the life of a special man”.

Their message said: “Mike and Angie joined us 10 years ago and revived the business with immediate effect.

“Their 38 years of experience being a pub landlord and landlady has been essential to the popularity of The Merry Monk and Mike will be greatly missed by customers and staff alike. His style in hosting the weekly quiz was truly unique.

“He was a true supporter of the NHS, as can be seen by the photo above, which shows Mike ringing the pub bell in Monkton Heathfield during lockdown to acknowledge their efforts.

“The pub will be hosting a fundraising night in the near future in aid of The Fielding Ward at Musgrove Hospital and all are welcome to join us to celebrate the life of a special man.”

People who wish to donate to Love Musgrove in memory of Mike can do so by visiting this website.

The funeral will take place at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Friday, May 5 at 2.40pm.