Mike Knight, known as Mr Palais, is mourned with music and memories after transforming Nottingham nightlife.
Friends and family mourned him, with many having careers he helped build. He significantly boosted Nottingham’s nightlife in the 80s and 90s, primarily through his management of the Palais nightclub.
Mr. Knight died at age 77 last month. People knew him as Mr. Palais or simply as “boss.” Yellow flowers spelled out “boss” on his coffin, alongside a photo from his younger years.
Before the service, he made one last visit to the Palais, where he worked for nearly 40 years. He started as an electrician, then became a DJ, and eventually the manager. The hearse paused outside the club on Lower Parliament Street.
His coffin entered to his favorite song, “Footsteps, Following Me” by Frances Nero. Pictures of his life played alongside Dusty Springfield’s song, “Going Back.”
Raised in Daybrook, he often wore a silver jacket and bow tie. He was called “the heartbeat” of the Palais. He was known for being kind despite his stern demeanor, and he made the Palais Nottingham’s top spot.
“The place was his life,” said Richard Late. After leaving the Palais in 2003, Mr. Knight started a business focused on licensing rules. He also led Nottingham City Pubwatch until 2020, serving for 32 years.
Former staff members traveled from far and wide to say goodbye. Andy Hoe, the owner of Ocean nightclub, even flew in from Canada to honor Mike.
Andy DJ’d for Mike years ago, and they stayed in touch after his retirement. Mike guided Andy when he took over Ocean nightclub. “He made sure I was doing things right,” Andy said.
Andy stated that he learned a great deal from Mike. Mike’s knowledge and guidance helped him make Ocean successful. “He was the King of Nottingham,” Andy said, highlighting the respect everyone had for him.