Tributes paid to much-loved former Sefton pub manager Matty Williams

Matty Williams, manager at the town centre Sefton Arms for more than 20 years, sadly passed away this morning, Wednesday, May 3.

Matty was a well-known figure in the town and was at the reins at the Baldwin Street pub for 22 years.

Under Matty's tenure, the Sefton was often a feature in the Good Beer Guide and was renowned for its real ale offerings and has been a popular venue in the town centre's drinking scene.

READ > Tributes and funeral announcements in the St Helens Star

Last year the Sefton was also recognised by the Best Bar None programme, which rewards businesses that are providing a high standard of service and safety for its customers.

Matty, who was a dad-of-three, was also an organiser the Westfield Street Music Festival, which brought a jamboree of live music to St Helens town centre venues in recent years.

He was also a chairman of the St Helens Pub Watch scheme.

Matty (third, from right) after the Sefton was accredited in the Best Bar None programme (Image: St Helens Council)

'He was loved by many'

In a tribute on Facebook, the Sefton posted: "It's with great sadness we say goodbye to a great manager!

"Matty died this morning surrounded by his lovely family.

"We are all devastated by this news.

"Matty was manager of The Sefton for 22 years. He was loved by many people and a true part of the town!

"All the staff at The Sefton loved him and it's a testament to him as a fantastic manager that we have kept the pub going!"

Matty (third, from right) in a promotional shoot for WestFest in 2015 (Image: St Helens Star)

It added: "He will be missed by all of us and we send our love to Nicole, his 3 boys and the rest of his family!

"We are having a collection in the pub for Nicole and the boys, if anyone would like to contribute to that.

"From your work family, we love you and miss you more than ever. You will always be part of The Sefton! You were the best person! Matty, always, we love you. REST IN PEACE!"

Meanwhile the St Helens branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) said: "We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Matty Williams who was manager at The Sefton St Helens for over 20 years.

"He fought a brave battle, but sadly died this morning surrounded by his loving family.

"We have many fond memories of Matty, as indeed many of you will. Our thoughts are with his wife and 3 young children at this time."