Lodge Porter John Maguire has retired after 20 years in the Lodge. We asked him to tell us about his time at Queen’s and the most memorable moments in the Lodge.
The Lodge is usually the first place people encounter when they arrive at Queen’s. What have you learned about welcoming people over the years?
It was very important to me for Freshers to have the best first impression of the College, as they would be spending long periods away from home and family for the first time, which for some can be quite an adjustment. I always had a chat with the students, got to know their interests, and reassured them with a friendly smile that the Lodge was always here for them if they needed anything.
What are some of the most memorable moments that you’ve experienced while on duty?
In my time as a Lodge Porter I have bonded with students/ Old members, Fellows, and staff. Sadly, over time we have lost some comrades and those times have been emotional for me; however, the impact those people have had on College life lives on. Some who have passed away who I was personally very close to are Chris Truby (Lodge), Robert Saberton-Haynes (SCR), Viv Masters (Cardo), Martin Edwards (Dean). Great memories, I miss them all (RIP).
Memorable moments include in 2006 when some filming for The Golden Compass took place at Queen’s and the then new James Bond was here, Daniel Craig, along with Nicole Kidman. I met Daniel when I was on duty with the then Head Porter Steve Beeley. During the filming, I wore a T-shirt with ‘007 Ronaldo coming to a stadium near you’, as I’m Man United supporter. Daniel is a Liverpool supporter and there was some colourful, but good spirited, banter shall we say!
What tradition or quirk of Queen’s have you come to love most?
A nice tradition that is still going strong is where a large group of students dress up as Santa Claus for Christmas. I remember them all cramming into the student post room next to the Old Lodge for this photo!
You’ve seen hundreds of students pass through Queen’s; what has it been like to watch generation after generation grow and move on?
From 2005 to 2025 I have seen a lot of students come and go. As the years go by, one thing I have always continued to reassure them, especially in their final months, is:
Try not to get too stressed over exams, you can only do your best and to be proud that you were at Queen’s and whatever you achieve, your loved ones will be proud of you no matter what.
It’s been an honour to welcome so many bright minds into the College over these 20 years. It’s a treat to see Old Members and their families come back to visit. I enjoy Graduation Day too, seeing the students back with proud parents and family.
What’s it like being on duty at night when most of the College is quiet?
I was a Day Porter up until 2016, when the College decided to staff the Lodge 24/7 after the caretaker (Ron) retired. When I started my night shifts I noticed it was not as quiet as one may expect! There’s always a lot of traffic and passers-by on High Street. This gets especially busy towards the weekend in the early hours of the morning due to the city’s nightlife. The steps by the large front door are in frequent use as people sit and wait for the bus.
What will you miss most and what are you most looking forward to in retirement?
My 20 years at Queen’s have flown by and it has been a great honour and privilege to work here. It’s emotional for me leaving. I will miss the staff, students, and Fellows and most of all the old Lodge from my time. I will cherish all the memories made.
After retirement, I’m looking forward to celebrating my 40th wedding anniversary with my wife Pauline and enjoying some much-needed rest and relaxation with family.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported me along the way I’m honoured to have served the one and only Queen’s College.
I’d like to share this poem from IT Manager David Olds, which sums me up!
To John, the Night Owl Porter
For twenty years, you’ve guarded the gate, at Queen’s College, you’ve been first-rate.
Through nights so long, and shifts so late, you’ve kept things running, never a debate.
A friendly face in the darkest hour, your presence, John, has been a power.
With football tales and Manchester pride, you’ve brightened nights, far and wide.
No more night shifts, no more keys, It’s time for rest, and a life of ease.
From football matches to sunny days, enjoy retirement in countless ways.
So, here’s to John, our porter grand, with a heart as big as Manchester’s stands.
May your days be filled with joy and cheer, and football victories, year after year!
