Last orders called again at Woolpack in original 'Emmerdale' village

ONE of television's most famous pubs has called last orders.

The Woolpack in the original Emmerdale village of Esholt closed its doors on Thursday night after a rousing farewell "do" with regulars.

Nichola and Richard McGrath took over the 177-year-old hostelry on a 10-year lease from Enterprise Inns four years ago but, with six more years left to run, they have quit.

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The couple have two children and Mr McGrath has a job working with his brother-in-law setting up beer tents at major shows.

They are going to live just a few miles away in Guiseley.

It will not be the first time that villagers have been left to work up a thirst when the pub's doors have been shut suddenly.

In October 2005, drinkers were stunned when the former landlord walked out and its owners had no option but to shut it.

In 2003 Bradford Council revealed that it owned the pub – scene of many famous soap scenes – after an audit of its assets was carried out three years earlier.

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It had been bought at the turn of the century for a modest sum by the council – which was then also the water authority – when it was thought the land might be used for a sewerage scheme.

But it was thought the pub did not fit in with its property portfolio and it was put up for sale. The pub – which has a three-bedroom flat above it – is still a magnet for Emmerdale fans.

In 1997 TV crews moved outside filming to a purpose-built set, complete with a mock-up Woolpack exterior, at Harewood, near Leeds.

Built in 1830, the world-famous pub on Main Street was formerly known as The Commercial.

No one from Enterprise was available for comment.