From barman to pub boss in new venture
AFORMER bartender is one of two men fronting the refurbishment of a pub which closed its doors last year.
The Shrimper in Marshside, Southport, closed permanently 16 months ago but is now the subject of a £170,000 refurbishment from Heinekenowned Star Pubs and Bars.
The investment will see business partners Bob Roberts and Tom Rooney, who both started their hospitality careers in Southport, take on the pub.
Tom started his career by pouring his first pint at the Shrimper at the age of just 17.
The Shrimper will be renamed The Marsh Harrier, a nod to Marshside as well as the local RSPB nature reserve and the Marsh Harriers often found there.
It’s hoped the venue will open later this month, with Bob serving as landlord and host while Tom offers business support as a hospitality consultant.
The venture will also create 12 new jobs for the area.
The pub, on Fylde Road, will be completely transformed with new wood cladding, paintwork and signage outside, and the creation of a 108-seater alfresco area with a heated covered pergola.
The internal refurbishment will also be upgraded and there will be a new food offering alongside a wide selection of wines, spirits and beers.
Bob said: “Residents have been crying out for a nice local and have been concerned for the pub’s future since it closed. Tom and I both have family in the area and we’re looking to return to our roots and find a pub nearby.
“Marshside is a friendly place with a good community spirit and we feel fortunate to have found a pub with so much potential here. The Marsh Harrier will have something for everyone. I can’t wait to open the doors and show people their newlook pub.”
Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager Phil McWilliam said: “We want to make The Marsh Harrier an asset to Marshside, and are delighted to be joining forces with Bob and Tom to bring the pub back to life.
“They’re highly experienced hospitality operators, know Marshside well and are passionate about creating a superb local. The investment will give The Marsh Harrier really broad appeal, and should attract people from Banks, Churchtown and across Southport.”