Wharfebank Brewery takes on second pub saving Yorkshire local from closure
The Half Moon in Pool-in-Wharfedale, an Enterprise Inns pub, had served its local community for years, but its last owners were unable to continue running leading to its closure last month.
However, when he'd heard about its demise, Kellaway, whose brewery is located in the same village, decided to step in and keep the pub running as a hub for the local community.
"Only working around the corner I know how much of a part of the local community it is," he said. "It really is a ‘proper local’ and it would have been criminal for it to just disappear, as so many pubs are doing currently.
"This pub is the centre for people to come together – something that is vital in every village and town and we feel privileged to now be a part of it.”
Re-opening
Following a brief refurbishment, the Half Moon will re-open its doors to the public on 31 May to serve drinks and a a limited food menu.
Kellaway plans to keep things simple at The Half Moon, serving the brewery's beers alongside monthly specials. The limited food menu will also be developed to include a range of traditional pub classics.
The brewer also said he plans to work with community groups to ensure the pub delivers what residents want.
Wharfebank, formed by ex-Caledonian sales director Kellaway, took over its first pub - the Fleece in Otley - in 2011 which became a showcase for the brewery's ales, which include Verbeia Pale Ale, Slingers Gold and Camfell Flame and has become renowned for its locally-sourced menu.
