Friends of a much-missed Lancaster publican have shared memories of a man they described as "the beating heart" of their community.
Pascal Meulemeester, landlord of The Park pub in Lancaster, took his own life in November 2025.
His friends say his death has left a huge hole in the city's pub and live music scene, of which Pascal was a major supporter.
Beyond Radio was invited to the George and Dragon pub to speak to Pascal's friends Shane Gleave, Nick Walton and Jonny Sykes, who wanted to pay tribute to the significant impact he had on Lancaster.
"It feels like the beating heart has been ripped away," said Nick.
"He embodied what it means to be part of Lancaster. He loved experiences and helping communities. He loved music.
"He was supportive of good people who wanted to do more to create such a good experience for everyone, not just themselves.
"That's what Pascal was. A very selfless, appreciative and most importantly, unique man."
LISTEN to Shane, Nick and Jonny sharing memories of Pascal
Below, Shane Gleave, Nick Walton and Jonny Sykes
Born and raised in Bruges, Belgium, Pascal worked in the licensed trade for around 30 years, previously at the Black Horse in Preston and the Three Mariners pub near St George's Quay, before taking over at the Park in Lancaster in July 2025.
Jonny, a local musician, said: "He would want to do everything for music in Lancaster, and musicians in general.
"He couldn't do enough. He was all for the show, and for doing anything we wanted to portray.
"He was supportive. That much energy, we need more people like that. He passed that on and inspired so many people to be the best version of themselves."
Nick said: "Pascal had a very interesting sense of humour. He was on it, he didn't miss a beat.
"He was an extremely unique individual and without him, I wouldn't be the man I am today. He was just a phenomenal man.
"He taught me a lot with my own career and life. He felt like a brother and an uncle at the same time."
Shane said: "He was the person you could always call when you needed something.
"We were always there for each other. He gave so much of himself for other people I don't think he made time for himself."
Below, Pascal outside The Park in Lancaster
Pascal's friends now want to keep his memory alive by raising funds for mental health and suicide awareness.
"This is so people can get help, so this doesn't happen again and we don't lose another friend and family member to something that is like this," said Jonny.
Later this year, the George and Dragon will host its second Life Fest, a music festival based around suicide prevention.
"During Life Fest, we are doing a charity fundraiser where I am going to shave my beard off," said Shane.
"I'm doing it for the fact that, I've lost friends including Pascal over the past year.
"I am known for having a big ginger beard so if I can make money just by shaving it off, to help support other people, then let's do it."
*An inquest held in February into the cause of Mr Meulemeester's death recorded a verdict of suicide.
If you need someone to talk to, call Samaritans on 116 123, at any time. Calls are free.
More information HERE.
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