Well-known publican, Mary Brady Sharpe, has announced her retirement from the hospitality industry but has assured locals in the St. John’s Park and surrounding areas that the pub will not be closing and will be left in “safe hands”.
Changing of the Guard
In a statement issued today, Mrs Brady Sharpe said:
“My parents, John and Mary Brady opened Brady’s Pub in 1968 and I took over the running 23 years ago. It has been a labour of love for me but as I’m turning 60 at the end of this year, I felt that the time was right to call last orders.
There’s been a lot of changes in the pub industry in the last 20 years and a lot of obstacles to overcome. However, I feel that the good days have always outnumbered the bad. Being in the heart of St. John’s Park I’ve met some amazing people, far too many to list. We’ve had the best regulars and we’ve always been proud to be their local. I’d like to thank them for all their support as well as the great staff who have worked with me down the years.”
Speaking about the new owners, Mrs Brady Sharpe said:
“I’m delighted to pass the baton on to Garreth McCarthy who was reared in The Square so knows St. John’s Park inside and out. Garreth has a lot of successful businesses in Waterford already including a number of well-known pubs that have thrived under his leadership. I have no doubt that he will bring a breath of fresh air to the pub, with lots of new ideas and exciting days to come. I wish him all the best.”
New Proprietor
Garreth McCarthy is the proprietor of popular city bars Uisce Beatha, Zanzibar and Adega Wine Bar.
He also has a successful Real Estate Business (GMC) and was responsible for bringing the Mattress Mick franchise to Waterford City, Dungarvan, Wexford and Carlow.
He said that he didn’t have to think too long about “taking the baton from Mary”.
“Brady’s Bar has been an institution, not only in St. John’s Park but in Waterford. As a landlady and a chairperson of Waterford VFI, Mary has commanded the respect of customers and industry personnel alike. As someone who grew up in St. John’s Park, it’s a a privilege for me to be able to continue the legacy of the bar, albeit with a few changes. We’ve decided that without a Brady behind the bar, it wouldn’t be right to keep the name so that will change, although we have dipped into the history of St. John’s Park for some inspiration there and we think people will be happy. I’d like to thank Mary for her service over the last two decades and look forward to welcoming customers and old and new from the end of November.”
