Major revamp to transform Drighlington pub

The Malt Shovel in Drighlington is to close at the end of play on 15^th February for a major £230,000 revamp by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars.  It will reopen under new management at the end of March as a true community local with lots of events and activities planned.

The pub, which will be family and dog friendly, is being taken on by Tony and Sue Ryder.  Originally from Halifax, they have over 15 years’ experience in the licensed trade.

The couple plan to make The Malt Shovel a true hub of the community.  They are keen to establish pool and darts teams and support local adult’s and children’s football.  In addition to serving coffee and drinks in the day, there will be a book corner for adults and children, and crafts and board games for kids.  Once a week, there will be an over 50’s fitness session in the morning, a vintage afternoon playing music from the 50s, 60s and 70s for people of all ages to dance and mingle, and a Monday Club to include bingo, raffles and music.

Other events include introducing monthly Northern Soul nights and Ladies’ cocktail and spirit evenings.  They will also host singles get-togethers and table top sales in the beer garden in the summer.

Supporting charities will be a major focus for the pub with big fundraising weekends held three times a year. 

The investment will see the pub benefit from a top-to-toe makeover with the bar and sports area given a rustic look and feel.  A darts board and a pool table are being installed along with four high-definition TVs, high tables and stools and low-level seating.

The Lounge will also be brought up to date with a new carpet, wall paper and a mix of fixed and freestanding furniture.

The outside of the pub will be smartened up, with blue render to the side, new signage and lighting as well bench seating and tables for 48 installed in the beer garden.

The drinks offer at The Malt Shovel will include premium beers, spirits and wine, zero alcohol and soft drinks and fresh coffee.

The latest dispense technology is being installed to improve the quality and consistency of draft beer and cider. The Smart Dispense System’s unique cooling technology and line insulation from keg to tap is 20% more energy efficient than standard systems, keeping cider and beer colder.  Other energy efficiency works will range from adding insulation and motion-sensor lighting to installing technology that will turn off drinks fridges when no movement is detected behind the bar and switch off cellar cooling equipment when the surrounding temperature is low enough.

Dogs and their owners will also benefit as the pub upgrade will include a dog station area with hooks for leads, treats, doggy bags and towel for wiping dogs.

Says Sue Ryder: “Tony and I had our eyes on the Malt Shovel for some time so when the opportunity arose to take it on we leapt at the chance.  We know people in Drighlington already and had heard that the village was crying out for a great community pub.  It is pretty tired looking at the moment, so the investment will give the pub a new lease of life, somewhere people will want to meet up with one another.  We’re really looking forward to moving to the village and getting to know local residents.  We’d also welcome suggestions for charities people would like the pub to support.”

Says Jon Kelly, Star Pubs & Bars Business Development Manager: “Tony and Sue are the perfect couple to run a community village pub.  They’re very experienced and are buzzing with ideas of how to entice people out and make The Malt Shovel the heart of the community.  I think they’ll be great for the pub and the village and wish them well.”