This is why the Otter's Pocket in Preston has closed for good and what will take its place

A pie and ale house in Preston has closed suddenly after its owner revealed plans to open a new venue.
By Matthew Calderbank
Published 2nd Mar 2020, 13:13 BST
Updated 2nd Mar 2020, 13:23 BST
The Otter's Pocket in Winckley Street, Preston closed on Sunday (March 1) as it prepares to re-open as Winckley Street Ale House on Friday (March 6). Pic: Steve HillsThe Otter's Pocket in Winckley Street, Preston closed on Sunday (March 1) as it prepares to re-open as Winckley Street Ale House on Friday (March 6). Pic: Steve Hills
The Otter's Pocket in Winckley Street, Preston closed on Sunday (March 1) as it prepares to re-open as Winckley Street Ale House on Friday (March 6). Pic: Steve Hills

The Otter's Pocket in Winckley Street closed its doors for the last time yesterday (Sunday, March 1), 15 months after it opened in November 2018.

But owner Mark O'Rourke has already revealed plans for the venue, which is being re-branded as Winckley Street Ale House.

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The new ale house plans to open its doors on Friday (March 6), just days after closing for refurbishment.

Entrepreneur Mark O'Rourke, who also runs Preston's Spanish tapas bar Fino, will open new venture Winckley Street Ale House at the former site of The Otter's PocketEntrepreneur Mark O'Rourke, who also runs Preston's Spanish tapas bar Fino, will open new venture Winckley Street Ale House at the former site of The Otter's Pocket
Entrepreneur Mark O'Rourke, who also runs Preston's Spanish tapas bar Fino, will open new venture Winckley Street Ale House at the former site of The Otter's Pocket

Mr O'Rourke, who also runs We Don't Give a Fork and Fino Tapas in the city centre, said the new venue will have a wider menu and air live sports.

He said the new ale house will still serve homemade pies, but as part of a larger menu of traditional British food, including fish and chips.

With the addition of Sky Sports and BT Sports, the new venue will also air live football matches and other sporting events.

Related topics:Mark O'RourkePrestonSky Sports

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