Deon P. Green, Weekly Gleaner Writer

David Thompson (third left) of the Beaufoy Wine Bar in Battersea, London is flanked by patrons as he cuts the 25th anniversary cake. - Contributed

LONDON, England:

As snow and hailstones rained down last Tuesday night, the Beaufoy Wine Bar at Lavender Hill in Battersea waxed warm with Caribbean vibes.

Decked out in Jamaica's national colours, complete with palm leaves and floating balloons, the venue was the closest thing to home for scores of regulars and visitors who turned out to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its opening with owner, Jamaican-born David Thompson.

Thompson said he took over the wine bar from its Irish owners in 1983 and jazzed it up.

"It was all in wood. Basically, nobody wanted it, but I saw the potential in it and it grew from strength to strength," he recalled.

Atmosphere and behaviour

What of the atmosphere and behaviour over the years?

"We have a lot of people whom we consider regulars and they help with any problem of bad behaviour that may surface; they will step in and let patrons know the standard we expect."

To others who have come to Britain yearning for success, Thompson said, "Be focused, work hard; there will be a lot of challenges but find a way to get on and achieve your aims. Look at the bigger picture."

An anniversary cake, complimentary Caribbean buffet and rum punch, a barrage of Jamaican oldies, calypso music and comedy were the order of the night.

A Jamaican oldies number blared from the music system under dimmed coloured lights to set the tone.

Beaufoy Wine Bar is believed to be the oldest of its kind, serving the black and West Indian community in London. Last Tuesday's bash was billed as a VIP party for its suppliers and special customers to mark its 25th anniversary on October 28.

RECORD

At midnight, Thompson went on stage to compliment his many customers.

'We are the first black bar in Battersea, we have had our challenges but thank God we found a way to serve the community for 25 years," he told patrons. "Because of your support, we have the record of being the oldest black-operated bar in London and probably the oldest one operating in Britain; I have no regrets, I would do it all over again. Thank you all; to everyone who has helped to make this a reality."

Currently, the entertainment spot at the wine bar features Hen and Stag nights and birthday parties with DJ Daddy Ernie. There is also 'Big People' end-of-month parties, 'Lovers Delight' on Tuesdays, with Karaoke on Wednesdays and 'Girls Night Out' on Thursdays, while special arrangements can be made for christenings. Other themed nights are in the cards.

LAUDED

The Jamaican High Commission's Lloyd Wilks toasted Thompson stating, "Maximum respect to David and all, it is fitting to give this man the highest commendation. He came here in the 1980s and did not just live, but he has survived in one of the toughest businesses and has set a standard for all to emulate, as we take on challenges in anticipation of a successful future."

It was laughter galore as Peter Hunningale, Ping Wing and others took to the stage.

The event was not without its celebrities. Former Reggae Boy Jamie Lawrence, BBC's DJ Chris Gold Finger, Charles Tomlin, actor and comedian and TV presenter, Lovina Brown, among others, attended.