Peter Hook pays touching tribute to The Star and Garter landlord Andy Martin

Manchester music legend Peter Hook has joined the hundreds paying tribute to The Star and Garter landlord Andy Martin. The publican, who ran one of Manchester's most significant venues for 21 years, died aged 52 on Friday (March 29) following a short illness.

His work has been recognised as crucial to ensuring the famed pub and music venue can survive in difficult times. Joy Division and New Order star Hooky is among those who have paid tribute Andy's tireless efforts.

Hooky has been a regular at the venue in recent weeks, as he prepares to perform a special charity gig of Joy Division classics in aid of mental health charities at The Star and Garter next month. He told the Manchester Evening News: "Andy was a lovely man from head to foot.

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"Truly a man of the people who recognised that mighty oaks grow from acorns. His importance to new Manchester music was vital. God rest his soul."

The Grade II-listed Fairfield Street pub has welcomed thousands of music fans over the decades. Andy first became involved in 1997, when he put on Half Man Half Biscuit for a gig, before taking on the licence six years later.

His death was announced by his wife Helen, who wrote on Facebook: "I'm devastated to be sharing the news that our licensee Andy Martin died today after a very short illness. He leaves behind Jasmine (5) and Georgina (3).

"We are all obviously in bits and I know that so many of you will feel this loss too. He was a wonderful dad, husband, brother, son and friend and this has left an unfillable hole in all our lives. Helen (Andy’s wife) x."

A GoFundMe page to support Andy's family with funeral costs has raised almost £5,000 so far. To read