Pub bell rings last orders in final tribute to much-loved Hastings landlord

The King's Head pub in Udimore stepped in to play a key role in saying goodbye to much-loved Hastings landlord James Davidson.

He was known for his deep family roots in the hospitality industry, and along with his wife DiDi, left a lasting mark on the local pub scene in Hastings as part of the 'Davidson Dynasty' from back in The Cambridge Hotel days, said Funeral Celebrant Debbie Goodsell.

She added: "James's journey in the pub world began at The George in Robertsbridge, a family business started by his parents.

"The family later moved to manage The Cambridge Hotel on Cambridge Road in Hastings, where James and his wife DiDi took over the pub after his parents had retired.

"They then became beloved figures at The Railway in St Leonards, and an integral part of the community with their two children Jane and Marcus.

"After James's passing on August 15, aged 88, a special tribute was planned for his funeral held on Thursday (September 3) announcing 'last orders' at the very end of the service to celebrate his life's work.

"However, there was a small snag, the family didn't have a pub bell to make the moment truly authentic."

Debbie said in a 'wonderful gesture of kindness' Mick and Hilary from The King's Head in Udimore responded to her plea on Facebook for a pub bell.

She added: "I was truly touched by Mick and Hilary's generosity. Even though we had never met, they took their pub bell off the wall and entrusted it to me, a complete stranger.

"Such kindness is rare and deserves to be celebrated. It meant everything to James’s children and grandsons.

"The Davidson family extends their deepest gratitude to Mick, Hilary, and their daughter Miki for their incredible generosity and trust.

"Their act not only honoured their Dad/Grandad’s memory but also showcased the strong pub community for landlords both present and past."