Mystery as former Wigan Warriors Rugby League star walks away from pub takeover

On October 17, Heineken-owned Star Pubs proudly announced that former Wigan Warriors and London Bronchos star Wes Cotton would be taking over as landlord of The Boathouse in Appley Bridge, when it reopened following a £214,000 revamp.

In a press release, he was quoted as saying he’d known the pub of his life and wanted to make it “a focal point of the community that caters for all and always has something on”.

This family pub on the outskirts of Preston is up for sale - this is how much for

But on October 25 - just eight days later - the chain issued news that Mr Cotton would no longer be taking over the pub - but wouldn’t confirm why. A spokesman told the Post: “We do not discuss individual circumstances of operators, who are independent business people, or our business arrangements with them.”

The pub will still open mid-November, as planned, creating more than 10 new jobs. It’s hoped the investment will upgrade the venue into a quality, family-friendly local complete with a new menu, sports area and activity programme, as well as a revamped garden.

This is what’s coming

To make the most of The Boathouse’s canalside location, the project will develop a 36-seater covered and heated alfresco terrace that can be enjoyed year-round for drinks, dining and events. The space will have new furniture, an outside screen and festoon lighting.

The internal works will retain The Boathouse’s distinctive country-pub feel whilst making it more cosy, comfortable and welcoming with new soft furnishings and wallpaper. Decorative foliage will bring the outside in and link the pub’s inside to its popular garden.

There will be a kitchen refit allowing for “good quality but affordable” food focused on pub favourites, such as burgers and fish and chips. Children will have their own menu, and special festive fare will be offered in the run- up to Christmas. On the drinks front there will be an extended selection of premium beers, wines and spirits. The pub will also serve cocktails plus two cask ales for which it will seek Cask Marque approval.

A new sports area will also be installed, kitted out with darts and an AV system showing Sky and TNT sports. A whole new range of events is planned, including weekend entertainment, a quiz, charity fundraisers, family fun days and bank holiday events.

Star Pubs investment manager for Lancashire Andy Bowden said: “We’re delightedto be putting The Boathouse back on the map and broadening its appeal so that there are lots of reasons to visit whatever the time of year. The Boathouse won’t just be a summer destination pub; it will be a fantastic local for all seasons and occasions, whether people want a family Sunday lunch, a great night out or to gather with friends to watch sport.”