Wharfebank links up for launch of first pub

A BREWERY set up by a former cricketer who couldn’t find a long-term career in the game has launched its first pub in a tie-up with Punch Taverns.
By The Newsroom
Published 24th Mar 2011, 09:08 BST

WharfeBank Brewery in Pool-in-Wharfedale has opened The Fleece, in Otley, with Punch, one of Britain’s largest pub operators. The two companies have invested £400,000 between them.

Martin Kellaway, managing director of WharfeBank, said: “Wherever possible we’ve tried to work with the building and have kept some of the original features in the tap room.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The Fleece will be the perfect place to sample our new brews as well as the firm favourites.”

Andy Brady, business relationship manager for Punch Taverns, said: “It’s fantastic to see this fine old Yorkshire pub restored with a great new offer for both new and old customers. We look forward to working in close partnership with Martin and seeing The Fleece continue to go from strength to strength.”

Mr Kellaway used to be on the books of Hampshire and Somerset but didn’t make it into the first eleven.

He left cricket in 1991 and began his career in the drinks industry with Bass before being seconded to Britvic soft drinks.

He later worked at London Pride maker Fuller’s and then Edinburgh-based Caledonian, which makes Deuchars.