Tributes paid to 'true champion' of Isle of Man music scene

Raz McVeighty, 'local legend' and Bushy's icon, dies

Tributes are being paid to a 'local legend' and a stalwart the Isle of Man's music scene.

Raz McVeighty, a familiar face at the former Bushy's Bar on Victoria Street and the Rover's Return, has died.

Mr McVeighty was instantly recognisable for his unique style, and he was the inspiration for the character on the logo of Bushy's Goth IPA.

Others will remember him from working at Tesco, Lake Road.

"He's going to leave a big hole in people's lives, he'll be sorely missed." - Martin Brunnschweiler

Bushy's Brewery Founder Martin Brunnschweiler has been paying tribute:

(Scroll down to find the full interview with Mr Brunnschweiler)

A part of the Bushy's family for more than 40 years, Raz was one of the main organisers of the Bushy's football team, The 'Dynamo Zhivago's'.

Picture credit: Martin Brunnschweiler.

Image: Raz (left) sporting a Bushy's football shirt and waving the flag of his beloved York City. Credit - Martin Brunnschweiler

Image: The logo of Bushy's Goth IPA depicting a 'youthful Raz'.

Image: Martin Brunnschweiler having a drink with an old friend. 

Meanwhile, hundreds of people have paid tribute online, describing him, most frequently, as a 'lovely' and 'kind' man. 

Manx punk band Swarf Damage said: "We, like so many others, are absolutely devastated having learned of the passing of our friend, Raz McVeighty.

"A true champion of underground and grass roots music, a warm and genuine human whom lived for what he loved."

Isle of Man ska/ punk trio Smoking Fingers said: "Absolutely devastated to hear about the passing of our mate Raz McVeighty

"We were really looking forward to seeing him at the upcoming gigs, so we’ll be raising a good few drinks to him when the time comes!!

"He was a truly lovely fella, always making people feel at home and striking conversation with more or less everybody!

"A genuine local legend with a cracking sense of humour."

You can listen to the full interview with Martin Brunnschweiler via the Manx Radio Newscast below: