PUB OWNER CALLS TIME AFTER DEATH

THE owner of one of London's most famous Irish pubs is selling up and heading home to Ireland after his daughter was killed earlier this year.

John Sweeney, who has run the Archway Tavern for the past 22 years, was devastated following the death of his daughter, Nichola, in April.

The business student, 20, was knifed in her Cork bedroom as she and a friend prepared to go out for the night.

Gary Gilchrist, family friend and general manager of the the Archway, said working at the pub brought back too many painful memories for Mr Sweeney - Nichola used to help out there during summer holidays.

He said: "Since Nichola's death, he's had to make some life- changing decisions. He just felt it was time to say goodbye to the Archway. She was here only last summer.

"It was time for him to reflect and decide where he wanted to go. He didn't have the heart to continue. His family are certainly more important."

Nichola's friend was also stabbed in the attack and needed 100 stitches. A man has been charged with murder and attempted murder and is due to go on trial later this year.

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