Squatters quickly removed from Wetherspoon's pub building owned by Sir Alan Sugar
EXCLUSIVE: The George in Wanstead, east London, was a popular pub run by the national chain, but it closed its doors for the last time on October 13.
A former Wetherspoon pub in a building owned by no nonsense business tycoon Lord Sugar was overtaken by squatters within days of it calling last orders, but they were swiftly evicted.
The George in Wanstead, east London, was a popular pub run by the national chain, but it closed its doors for the last time on October 13.
Lord Sugar, famous for his long-running stint on BBC1's The Apprentice, chose via his property firm not to renew Wetherspoon's lease.
It was instead given to independent London pub chain Urban Pubs and Bars, which has about 52 venues across London.
However, within hours of it closing, the doors were re-opened by brazen squatters.
They even stuck up signs goading locals that "we live here now" and "nothing can be done".
One sign stuck in the front window of the large Edwardian building said: "Police know we are here - there is nothing they can do. Check back for legal notice - we live here now."
One local man, who wished to remain anonymous, told Express.co.uk: "I walked past on Sunday afternoon and all these signs were up in the front doors and they covered some of the windows with paper to screen it off. They must have got in there pretty soon after it closed the weekend before."
However, the occupation was only short term, after the owner and new tenants are understood to have secured an emergency injunction and the unwanted guests were booted out at around 11am on Monday, October 21.
Builders were seen inside the property this afternoon carrying out early work for the planned refurbishment by the new tenant.
The George dates back to the 1700s but the current building was completed in 1903.
Urban Pubs and Bars confirmed it will reopen as The George and Dragon, the name it had until 1904.
In a statement the firm said: "We are delighted to be able to rescue this much-loved pub, a place that has been part of Wanstead’s history since 1716.
“Following some refurbishment work the pub will reopen as a great London traditional pub serving great food including a range of delicious Sunday roasts and a wide selection of beers. We look forward to seeing you soon.”
Wetherspoon said it did not wish to comment and Lord Sugar has been approached.
