The Market Tavern, Horwich has new faces behind the bar

Shane Moulton from Blackrod started running The Market Tavern a year-and-a-half ago and bought it a couple of months ago with partner Karin Maloney.

Prior to working at the pub, Shane focused on his business S.M Security, which is still going.

He said: “When the opportunity came about to buy the bar it was a new adventure.

“I fancied a change and it’s a new challenge.

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“I am all for new challenges and trying new things.

“I have always been around pubs and bars across the north west.”

The Market Tavern (Image: Public)

The driving force behind his change in career has also been his three children.

He added: “We want to leave something for our kids to know they have something to grow up to.

“It’s something that the kids don’t have to worry about in life.”

One of the biggest changes that has been made is the rebranding of The Cellar Bar - which is down steps next to The Market Tavern pub.

It is now known as the Escape Lounge and is strictly for over 25s to offer a space for some of the slightly older ones going out.

Shane said: “We found out more about the locals and what their interests are.

“The club is great for the older ones who want to chill out and enjoy cocktails.

“The Market Tavern is a bit more mixed in age groups.”

The Escape Lounge (Image: Public)

The cocktails will be made by two professional mixologists and will be open on Fridays and Saturdays from 8pm until late, with a view to open more as it becomes more popular.

Shane added: “We have got a huge response from opening the club.

“I am feeling very positive and confident.

“We want to bring back positivity and a good laugh to Horwich.”

Since taking over the pub, Shane says they have started to offer more options for customers hiring out the pub or club for functions.

Punters can now ask for balloons, buffets, balloon arches, DJs and more as part of several package deals.

Customers can also get coaches to away games, and a shuttle bus from The Market Tavern to home games.

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