A Wigan borough pub reopens after refurbishment and with a new team in charge
A Tyldesley man and his wife take over a pub that has been on his doorstep most of his life
A Wigan borough pub has reopened following a refurbishment, with new publicans Paul and Michelle Pheasey welcoming guests back to the refreshed venue.
The investment has given the Canal Duke at Tyldesley a more modern feel while retaining the welcoming atmosphere that locals know and enjoy.
Husband-and-wife team Paul and Michelle bring a combined 60 years’ experience in the pub trade, having both spent much of their working lives in hospitality.
For Paul, taking on the Canal Duke is particularly special. Having lived on the estate where the pub is located for most of his life, he knows the area well and has long recognised the pub's place in the community.
After a few years away from the trade, Paul returned to hospitality last year, working at festivals and concerts before joining the Canal Duke on a part-time basis. When he discovered the tenancy was available, the timing felt right for the couple to take on their own pub.
As part of their plans, Paul and Michelle are preparing to introduce a traditional pub menu with a home-cooked feel. Work is underway to get the kitchen ready, with food expected to be available in the coming weeks.
The couple are also keen to make the Canal Duke a place for the whole community, with plans to organise family fun days and charity events.
The pair said: “We've both spent most of our working lives in pubs, so we're really excited to be taking on the Canal Duke together.
“Having lived in the area for most of my life, I've known the pub for years. When I started working here, I could see how much potential it had, and when the tenancy became available, everything seemed to fall into place.
“It's been great to see the refurbishment come together and give the pub a fresh new look. For us, it's important that people still feel that same friendly atmosphere when they walk through the door.
“We've got plenty of ideas for the future, particularly when it comes to food and getting the community involved. We'd love to host family days and charity events, and hopefully make the Canal Duke somewhere everyone feels welcome.”