Lunchtime shoppers visiting St. Modwen’s latest launch in Kirkby Town Centre, The Market Tavern, were treated to a pint pulled by national treasure Ricky Tomlinson at yesterday’s opening event.

Local lad Ricky Tomlinson got behind the bar in his TV character as Britain’s favourite Dad, Jim Royle, to pull the first pint at the opening of The Market Tavern pub and carvery, which opened its doors on 20 February.

On the site of the former Weatherspoon’s in Kirkby, the newly-renovated Market Tavern, owned by local businessman Tom Nash, will attract more people to the town, bringing new life to the town centre and creating 25 new jobs in the area.

Tom Nash, said: “I’m thrilled that Ricky pulled the first pint at our opening event. He’s a great part of the local community here, and certainly attracted the crowds on launch day.

“As the owner of various pubs and carverys across the region, I was looking to invest in my home town of Kirkby. I now employ 60 people across the region and am looking to grow the size of the pub estate further in future.”

Town centre manager Mike Matthews said: “Since the acquisition of Kirkby Town Centre in 2015, St. Modwen has brought many new operators to Kirkby and the Market Tavern represents a significant investment in the area. As footfall in the town continues to grow, we’re sure that this new offer will attract more people and further development.”

St. Modwen has been working closely with Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council to develop plans for the Town Centre. For more information on the Company’s plans please visit: www.kirkbytowncentre.com.

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