Patrons raise thousands for Armed Forces charity in memory of Glasgow publican

31 March 2026

Punters and staff at a Glasgow city centre bar have raised £2,500 for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity in memory of a much-loved colleague.

Alex Mullan was just 57 when he died unexpectedly in his sleep in September last year (2025). The long-term owner of the Renfield Bar in Glasgow, Alex had a military upbringing and spent time in Singapore with his dad, a Royal Navy chef, before the family settled in Balornock, Glasgow.

Alex had plans for a SSAFA fundraiser to celebrate St Andrew’s Day in November – but the event was put on hold when the news broke that Alex had passed away.

Following Alex’s funeral, Renfield Bar staff decided to host the event in his honour and pay tribute to the “gentle giant” they knew and loved.

Event organiser Ryan Little, a colleague of Alex’s for three years, said: “It was a great day. The whole thing lasted the best part of 12 hours and the bar was really busy all day. All our regulars were there, and Alex’s family and friends.

"It was a party atmosphere and everyone shared stories and had a laugh. There was a real community feel and it was great to have everyone in the same place celebrating the guy we all knew.”

Alex’s partner of 16 years, Karen Joyce, added: “It was lovely to do something in Alex’s memory. He was well-known and well-loved. The generosity was unbelievable and it was an amazing day – a celebration of his life, and exactly what he would have wanted.”

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity has one aim: to make sure that our Armed Forces community never battle alone. The money raised at Alex’s fundraiser will help SSAFA continue to support the Armed Forces community in Scotland – including serving personnel, veterans, and military families like Alex’s – in their time of need.

Scott Cunningham, Senior Challenge Events Officer for SSAFA, said: “At SSAFA we’re honoured to have been a trusted source of support for serving personnel, veterans, and their families for more than 140 years.

“It’s always a privilege when someone chooses to raise funds for SSAFA and, in doing so, help us reach and embrace even more people who need our support. The staff and customers of the Renfield Bar should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved in Alex’s memory.”