Tributes paid to popular boss of Chesterfield bar Chandlers

A woman has paid tribute to her partner '“ a popular Chesterfield bar boss '“ after his death.
Luke Alton. Picture submitted.Luke Alton. Picture submitted.
Luke Alton. Picture submitted.

Luke Alton, 39, who co-managed Chandlers on St Mary's Gate, sadly passed away last month.

Louise Finney, who was Luke's partner for the past five-and-a-half years and also co-managed the bar with him, said: "Luke was very much-loved at Chandlers by both staff and customers.

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"He, I am sure, will be remembered by so many for his extraordinary musical talents – but he was also a fantastic bartender and manager.

"His calm and friendly customer service was something everyone here aspired to.

"He always remembered the names and faces of customers new and old and many people came into the bar specifically to see him.

"I can honestly say I never met anyone who disliked or had a bad word to say about Luke. I know this is probably said a lot about those who have passed away – but in this case it is true and was reflected by the 400-plus people who attended his funeral service.

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"His kind, intelligent, gentle and understanding nature touched the hearts of so many.

"A huge hole will be left at Chandlers now he is gone – not only for me but also for the rest of the staff and customers.

"He was very proud of the bar and we will continue to work hard and do him proud.

"A phrase which was written by Luke’s brother and read at the service has been continually quoted on social media since the funeral.

"It was, 'you either loved Luke – or you’d never met him'.

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"This is by far the most accurate thing anyone who knew him could articulate.

"He was the best partner, son, brother, friend and manager any of us could have asked for."

Police said they were called to a flat at the back of Chandlers on the morning of Wednesday, May 18, and found Mr Alton's body.

There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and an investigation is ongoing.

Hundreds of people attended Mr Alton’s funeral last week and many tributes have flooded in on social media.