Spruced-up Globe does rip-roaring trade

Customers of The Globe

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The reopening of Wardle’s Globe Inn turned out to be a sterling success with many eager customers clamouring at the bar for beverages.

At the time of the year when celebrations are at a peak, the new owners couldn’t have picked a better time to try their hand at this formerly run-down establishment. “It was grotty.” said landlady Barbara Bamford. “Shut for four months but not cleaned for 25 years.”

Ms Bamford, who recently made the career switch from auxiliary nurse, has gone into partnership with Iain Hesford, known to many in Littleborough as the previous landlord of both The Sun and The Queens.

After being handed the keys just days before the pub was scheduled to open, it was a race against time to return the Globe into a presentable state. Plenty of good-old elbow grease and a fresh coat of paint later and the pub opened its doors to the approval of customers both new and old.

“It’s nice to see a village pub opening up instead of closing down”, said John Butterworth.

“We’re glad our home is open again,” a group of friends cheekily added as they made use of the new jukebox.

While outwardly the Globe doesn’t look particularly spacious, the front doors open to an social establishment that is both warm and inviting. “It’s like the tardis; it’s bigger on the inside.” said Mark Taylor, as he admired the Globe’s various rooms containing a new pool table, dartboard and plentiful seating areas.

For the new landlord and landlady, prospective pipe-dreams could soon become a reality. Ideas of pub lunches, more opening hours and catering for parties are in the minds of these pint-pulling entrepeneurs.

“We’ve already booked a Comedy Night in January”, Ms Bamford eargely explained. “It should be really successful.”

For the moment the reopening of a popular socialising spot with “a local friendly atmosphere” seems to be enough to judge by the number of people well on their way to becoming the Globe’s new regulars. “It’s very nice to see it open for the community.” commented Elaine Gardiner. “It’s probably just what Wardle needs.”