Shropshire pub reopens after £275,000 revamp

A Shropshire pub has reopened following a £275,000 renovation programme.

The Barley Mow in Madeley has been revamped as part of the 'Grandstand' strategy by owner Marston's which sees a focus on showing live sports while supporting local teams and clubs.

The project has included the installation of several big-screen TVs, a new sound system and flexible tiered seating with the aim of giving customers a better view of the action.

The Barley Mow, in Court Street, has also been decorated with local sports memorabilia.

Marston's said it was now on the hunt for photographs and merchandise, giving pub-goers the chance to fill the walls and celebrate the achievements of local sports stars and teams, past and present.

Alongside the live sport, classic pub games like darts, regular entertainment and events will also be on offer.

There is also a new-look food and drink menu, with all draught beer available in two-pint cups.

Local sports teams have the chance to receive a 'Black Card' which will secure them bottomless fries when they visit for team drinks and even more rewards if they win their game.

Marston's said the new Grandstand concept had been introduced after industry research revealed that 8.5 million consumers had watched sports games at the pub and 86 per cent of sports fans said they watched games at sports pubs due to a livelier atmosphere, better screens, sound and connecting with friends and family.

Marston's operations manager Lee Marsh said: "We're so excited to reopen Barley Mow as a Grandstand pub.

"We know how passionate our locals are about sport and we're looking forward to offering them the best possible experience, with fantastic facilities and a brilliant atmosphere to enjoy all the action together."