Tapping in to music
Chris Berry in The Taproom, former Wilton Arms pub. (d27031206)
Pub closures are currently all too common, with two calling time in Yorkshire each week.
But bucking this trend is the Wilton Arms in Commercial Street, which is reopening as music venue The Taproom.
New owner Chris Berry bought the pub from Punch Taverns at the end of last year and closed it for a full refurbishment.
The venue will open under the new name in May and will specialise in acoustic music.
It will have two bars and a small stage for musical acts.
Mr Berry said he had always wanted to run a venue and after a year of searching decided that Batley was the perfect location, because he thought there was a lack of music venues in the area.
He said: “There is a great big hole between Leeds and Bradford.
“There is a great live music tradition in West Yorkshire and many musicians will welcome it.
“I really liked the building, it is in the town centre and it is close to public transport and the M62.”
Mr Berry said he would be taking on up to four new staff members.
He said: “We aim to return it to its former glory and popularity, with real ales, fine wines and proper music.”
The Taproom will open on Thursdays and Fridays from 5pm to 12am and Saturdays and Sundays from lunchtime onwards.
At a later stage Mr Berry hopes to extend opening days and start serving food.
He is now looking for local bands to perform at The Taproom.
Any performers interested in playing there can drop into the pub or contact Mr Berry on chrisberry@uwclub.net.
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Weather for Batley
Friday 24 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 5 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 30 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 7 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North west
