A PUB in Farnworth which has stood empty since 2020 has reopened following a £500,000 investment.

The former Market Tavern in Brackley Street, Farnworth, held its grand relaunch with a formal opening done by the Mayor of Bolton, Linda Thomas - who cut a ribbon and said a few words to officially launch the newly refurbished venue.

The pub has undergone significant renovations to the property and now includes the town’s largest beer garden, live sports, food and drink throughout the week, and is set to feature a number of weekly events including afternoon teas.

Cllr Paul Sanders, ward councillor for Farnworth, said: "We'd like to send our congratulations to Naimi and Kieran on their grand re-opening of The Market Hotel.

"It was a wonderful evening enjoyed by many. The pub looks amazing and the garden is stunning. Here's to many successful years for this lovely young landlady and landlord."

The venue, which lies in the heart of the planned town centre regeneration works, has a capacity of around 140 people.

It is also family and dog friendly and will feature pub-grub type food ensuring there is something for a range of people to enjoy.

The venue is also set to feature a range of signature brands including Agnes Arber gins, Old J Spiced Rums and Dortmunder Beer.

The interior of the property has murals along the walls dedicated to the history of the town and pub whilst the beer garden includes large murals featuring the Signature Brands on offer and the history of the previous brewery who built and owned the Market when it originally opened in 1901, W.M Tong and Sons at the Diamond Brewery.

Additionally, there is one craft ale and one traditional craft cider brewed to commemorate the original owners of The Market, Diamond Brewery, which have been named Diamond.

Father and daughter duo Iain and Naimi Davies will be leading the team, with Naimi working front of house.

Landlord and chef Kieran McCormack will be in charge of the catering team with a menu which will include everything from pub meals to light snacks and sharers.

Naimi said: “It’s something that Farnworth really needs. It’s definitely what we’ve been missing.

“A lot of the pubs around here are very male-dominated. We will have something for everyone - men, women, children, families, and even dogs.”

The building has stood in the heart of Farnworth since 1901, when it was owned by the Tong family - who owners Dorbiere are currently trying to trace.

Dave Lewtas, area manager for Dorbiere, said: “The process of relaunching a new pub has undoubtedly been challenging over the last 18 months; firstly due to the pandemic but also due to the trading conditions that have seen so many pubs closed down over the last decade.

"We really believe in levelling up the North and The Market has shown us there’s huge potential to be had in the local area.

"Farnworth itself is undergoing a period of regeneration and we’re delighted to be investing in the local economy and ensuring that we provide something for the whole family – which is what Farnworth really needs, and we’re delighted to be a part of it."