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BAR PERSON PROFILE: Dominic Wood @Camelford Arms

March 2, 2018

The first friendly face many LGBT+ folk meet when they arrive in the city is the bar person at their local LGBT+ venue. These gatekeepers to the community provide an important role both befriending and signposting new arrivals to the city. Gscene finds out a little more about them and what makes them special.

Dominic Wood
Dominic Wood

Where do you come from? Canada, the true North. Despite all my customers thinking I’m Irish.

What brought you to Brighton? I’m currently in my final year at the University of Brighton, looking towards the Masters program now.

How long have you worked at the Camelford? Since June of 2017, originally as much-needed Pride reinforcements!

Oddest thing you’ve been asked for behind the bar? I’ve worked in customer service for nearly a decade now, so at this point in my life, not a lot surprises me.

Worst kind of punter? The entitled kind. All staff should be treated with respect, snapping your fingers doesn’t make me want to serve you any quicker. 

What do you do when it’s quiet in the bar? Restocking, a bit of cleaning, and chatting with the locals.

Do you know the difference between beer and ale? I should hope so! 

Can you pull a pint? I’m sure my managers would say that’s subject to opinion, but I reckon I pour a mean pint. I always serve what I would like to receive.

Do you prefer to be shaken or stirred? Neither, Don’t touch my beer!

What’s your favourite tipple? Depends on the time of day/night, usually like to end the evening with a nice glass of scotch. 

What makes you roll your eyes? If you’re looking for a vegan soy latte, I can’t help you!

Are those really your photos on Grindr? I don’t think it would surprise many to know that I’m not part of the Grindr community.

What makes a perfect barperson? I’ve always maintained that, you can teach someone to pour a pint but you can’t teach someone social skills. We’re here to serve, if the customer wants to chat, its nice to lend an ear. 

Where do you go out when you’re not working? As I’m near the end of my degree, it’s very much hibernation season. Although I don’t mind a quiet bar and pint as a change of pace. 

Tell us a secret about yourself? Not too many to share really, I like to think I’m an honest guy.

Your favourite book? I wouldn’t say I have a favourite and I wish I had more time for recreational reading, but my most recent was Naomi Kleins ‘No Logo’.

Your favourite artist/s/group? Unfortunately it’s not Steps or Kylie; although I really listen to anything, but can’t really get into the Grime scene or Polka music

What’s your nickname behind the bar? Thanks to our lovely Assistant Manager Tom Morris, its tends to change week to week. ‘Mr Princess’ has stuck longer than I thought though. 

What get’s you swinging your hips? Tequila. 

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