‘Now it’s finished, it’s beautiful’
A LEEK landlord has revealed his delight at giving a pub a new lease of life after it spent 10 years lying derelict.
The Woodman has reopened as a traditional pub, serving real ales and a large selection of gins.
The Old Hall Street venue had been home to various nightclubs in recent years before being left empty for a decade.
It has been transformed by Caldmore Taverns - which has bought and refurbished several pubs in the area - and returned to its original name.
Guy Thorburn, from Leek, has taken the helm and is looking forward to welcoming new punters through the doors.
The 52-year-old said: “Caldmore Taverns have totally renovated the place from top to bottom and the upstairs has been turned into flats.
“I have been involved for about four months so I have watched it come on and it has been marvellous seeing the progress.
“Now it’s finished I think it’s beautiful. I love it, it feels like such a comfortable pub.”
The building was bought by developer Realis Estates 10 years ago, when it was looking to redevelop the old bus station site. But when those plans floundered, Realis sold the property earlier this year.
Steve said: “I’m feeling really positive about the pub’s future. It may take a few weeks or months but once we’ve built up a reputation I think it will fly.
“We’ve got eight real ales - four or five of which are locally brewed - two craft ciders, 21 gins and a nice selection or whiskies and bourbons, plus all your regular drinks.
“In the next few weeks we are looking to start doing light bites and we will have some entertainment, like acoustic acts and open mic nights.”
The pub opens at midday and is licensed to open until midnight during the week and 1am at the weekend.