Andy Feest

The Queens Arms in George Street celebrates its 17th birthday with a bumper series of events next weekend starting on Friday January 29.

Andy Feest took over ownership of the Queens Arms in December, 1992 and has been at the helm ever since, making him one of Brighton's longest serving and most successful landlords.

Prior to taking over the reigns, Andy worked as a sales rep for Slumberland Bedding Company and worked as a DJ and host at Club Revenge. After taking charge of the Queens Arms, Andy continued hosting the Mr Gay UK Brighton heat at Revenge each year.

'Beryl' (David Bennett) became Andy's business partner in 1995 and was bought out by Andy in 2007.

Andy presented top line entertainment at The Queens Arms three or four times a week, marketing the venue as the 'Flagship on George Street.' He booked top name drag artists such as Phil Starr, Dave Lynn, Maisie Trollette Lola Lasagne and Drag With No Name regularly into the venue.

Betty Swollocks developed a loyal following of karaoke queens at her regular karaoke nights.

In 1997 The Queens Arms won three Golden Handbags (including best cabaret venue, best bar and best landlord) at one of the legendary Golden Handbag Shows at the Brighton Dome and they have picked up a Golden Handbag award each year the awards have been staged ever since, in a variety of categories.

The Queens Arms has supported many local charites over the years and have raised thousand of pounds in support of many worth while causes including The Sussex Beacon,  THT,  St Marys Church, The Martlets Hospice, LGBT Switchboard, St  Johns Ambulance, Pride and many many more. In 2005 they raised a massive £5,000 for the Tsunami Appeal, a night Andy says he will never forget.

Andy was a Pride Trustee in 2004 and 2005 and has been very vocal in his criticism about the position the present Pride Trustees have found themselves in.

Andy said:
"I have seen so many changes on the Brighton scene in the last 17 years, but I am still just as passionate about our gay community and our scene as ever.

"I think the answer is every few years you just have to reinvent yourself.

"Will I be here for another 17 years ?

Well that is the plan. It will take me to 65yrs old by then  But you never know whats around the corner."