Yorkshire village pub set for major refurb and ownership change

It will be taken on by Tony and Sue Ryder, originally from Halifax, who have over 15 years’ experience in the licensed trade.

Mrs Ryder said: “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.”

The couple said they plan to make The Malt Shovel a “true hub of the community”, and plan 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, the couple also have plans for a book corner for adults and children, and crafts and board games for kids. Once a week, the pub will also host an over 50’s fitness session in the morning.

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.

Jon Kelly, Star Pubs & Bars business development manager, said: “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.”