Former Wigan rugby league star to expand bar empire

A former Wigan rugby league star has revealed his latest ventures as he continues to expand his bar empire.

Lee Mossop, 31, already owns The Old Bank coffee and wine bar on Church Street in Orrell, and now plans to do the same elsewhere.

Salford Red Devils captain Lee said he is currently working on plans to turn the former RBS bank in Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, into a coffee and wine bar.

A planning application has already been approved but after having the plans delayed due to the coronavirus he is hoping to crack on with the work.

He said: “The application went through planning quite quickly but the coronavirus has stopped us getting on with the work.

“We’re hoping to start cracking on with it now and maybe be open over the next few months.

“The building has been empty for some time so needs something in it.”

Prop forward Lee has also submitted plans to Chorley Council seeking to turn the former Royal Bank of Scotland branch in Croston into a coffee shop and bar.

The plans also include the first floor being used as a function room.

On Saturday, he also reopened The Old Bank after lockdown restrictions eased.

He said: “Things are really coming together with the Pemberton bank and now this one in Croston.

“I want to provide something different for the locals as there’s nothing like this type of place around.

“Full-time and part-time jobs will come from these new bars also.

“The reopening of The Old Bank went well on Saturday with social distancing measures in place and staff wearing PPE. These have been hard times for all businesses and I just want to kick on with everything now.”