Installation of an illuminated Narnia display and a wall-hanging Christmas tree delight High Barnet publican

Two regulars at the Ye Olde Monken Holt in Barnet High Street have transformed one wall of the pub into an illuminated display in readiness for a series of Christmas and New Year fund raising events.

Pride of place goes to a reproduction of a scene from the fantasy world of magic and mythical beasts as recounted in the Chronicles of Narnia by C S Lewis.

Publican Veronia McGowan – seen above with Tony Murchison (far right) who created the display and pub regular Tony Fogarty (far left) – said the unveiling of a Christmassy themed-wall was always quite a moment for the pub as so much thought went into the design.

“We are hosting several fund-raising musical events in the run up to Christmas and over the New Year.

“A fresh seasonal display ever year is a tremendous boost. I am always the last to know what the theme will be, which means it is a real surprise.”

The aim of regular customers Mr Murchison and his colleague Paul Lynch is to create a welcoming atmosphere and Ms McGowan said she could not thank them enough for their imaginative creations.

“We are a real community pub, and we are very well supported by our regulars and their friends.

“Hosting charity events is my way of giving something back to the town. We always support local charities and are determined to do our bit for Barnet’s good causes.”

Three of the main events are:

Tuesday 19 December 8pm: St Mary’s Monken Hadley parish church choir and Christmas draw for the Barnet Puddenecks Club who organise events for Barnet’s older residents.

Thursday 21 December 8pm: Christmas carol service with brass band raising funds for the NSPCC.

Saturday 6 January 8pm:  An Irish celebration, Nollaig na mBan, or Women’s Little Christmas, a fund raiser for Barnet Women’s Refuge.