Time flies when you’re pulling pints and keeping the place ticking… and somehow it’s already been a whole year since Sam and Pete joined the Blue Bell crew.

Not much has changed in that time… aside from Pete’s haircut.

Meet Sam (aka “Basil”)

Sam started with us part-time behind the bar and has since worked his way up to become a proper backbone of the team. You’ll know him instantly — mainly thanks to that signature moustache, which has earned him the nickname Basil (and yes, it’s stuck).

When he’s not pouring your pint or having a chat across the bar, Sam’s giving back to the community, volunteering at a local food bank over in Portsmouth. Top bloke.

He’s also a big football fan, backing both Manchester City F.C. and Portsmouth F.C. — we don’t question it, we just accept it.

And if you don’t spot him behind the bar, chances are he’s on the other side of it, claiming it’s all part of “quality control”. We’ll let you decide.

Favourite drink? Pinot Grigio Rosé — classy.

And then there’s Pete

Pete originally came in to help us out short-term… and never really left. Not that we’re complaining.

These days, he’s the man keeping everything running smoothly — from training the team to constantly pushing standards higher across the pub. If something’s getting better at the Blue Bell, chances are Pete’s had a hand in it.

When he’s off-duty, he swaps pub life for the great outdoors. You’ll find him out and about around Emsworth on his bike, braving open water swims, or wearing his woggle with pride as a scout leader.

Basically, if it involves fresh air and a bit of adventure, Pete’s in.


We’re lucky to have them both — two absolute grafters who’ve become a huge part of what makes the Blue Bell what it is.

So next time you’re in, raise a glass to Sam and Pete… or better yet, let Sam pour it for you.