Decorative Mug Detaches from Pub During Storm Darragh

A large decorative mug, which had adorned the exterior of The High Flyer pub and coffee shop, became dislodged during strong winds over the weekend. This substantial polystyrene mug, featuring illustrations from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, had been a fixture on the establishment in Ely, Cambridgeshire, since 2021. The item became airborne on Saturday evening, coinciding with Storm Darragh’s impact on the city. The mug had been central to a continuing planning dispute with East Cambridgeshire District Council. Although the pub had committed to its removal in January, the storm seemingly accomplished this task prematurely. Nevertheless, the pub stated its intention to reinstall the mug prior to the deadline next year. The council’s involvement began soon after the mug’s initial installation, prompted by resident feedback labeling it “hideous” and a “monstrosity.” Conversely, other individuals expressed pleasure at the new feature on Newnham Street, characterizing it as “quirky.” It had received temporary planning permission and was vividly decorated with illustrations from the well-known children’s publication. A council spokeswoman confirmed: “The two-year temporary planning permission for the mug expired on 24 August 2024, and when the planning enforcement team contacted the business they were advised that the mug was due to be removed in early January 2025.” Despite Storm Darragh dislodging the mug ahead of schedule, some individuals expressed regret at its departure. DeeDee Doke, an Ely resident, mentioned hearing a weekend rumor about the mug’s collapse and subsequently verified it personally. The mug is presently situated on a patch of grass close to the pub structure. “It blew off the wall – and the handle has come off,” she stated, adding, “We had horrific winds here on Friday and Saturday, and it continued into much of Sunday.” Expressing her admiration for the item, she remarked: “I love it. I think it’s rather idiosyncratic – something you don’t expect on the side of a pub – and it’s beautifully painted.” Jan Grochal, the general manager of The High Flyer, reported that the mug detached on Saturday evening. He noted that no one heard it fall because it was “quite light.” He elaborated, “We had an issue with the strong winds but didn’t have a clue it had come off until my assistant noticed it.” Grochal indicated that despite being “instructed to take it off [by the council] in January,” they planned to re-erect it this week. He concluded, “It’s a sad thing – but it is very popular, attracting lots of people.”