The Moors Tavern
The Challenge
The Moors Tavern, Spennymoor had been long term closed and was named The Salvin Arms when acquired by Red Oak Taverns as part of a larger acquisition in August 2015. Red Oak Taverns advertised for a new Tenant Partner but, given the poor state of the pub following its long term closure, needed to invest heavily ‘up front’ in order to secure a long term Tenant Partner and to provide the new operator with every chance of a successful future.
The Solution
Amongst the applications received to operate the pub was one from the local football club, Spennymoor Town FC. Their own clubhouse had burned down some thirteen years previous, with the only current licensed provision specifically for supporters of the club being a small bar (the “Moors Bar”) located at the club’s ground. The pub is ideally located, just a short walk from the ground.
The club is enjoying a very successful period in its evolution under the current owner, local businessman Bradley Groves. Four promotions in the last six years leaves the club well placed in the Premier Division of the Evo-stick Northern Premier League (2016). Further, the club’s triumph in the 2013 FA Vase Final at Wembley Stadium has provided additional success. The team is semi-professional and attracts approximately 700 supporters to home matches.
The Red Oak Taverns team met with Mr Groves and formed a partnership that would allow not only for a fantastic home for the football club to be able to entertain guests and visiting football fans, but also offer a brand new amenity for the community of Spennymoor. New darts, pool and dominos teams have been recruited and food introduced. Club memorabilia adorns the walls in parts of the pub, including a fabulous wall montage depicting Spennymoor FC’s successful day at Wembley. A trophy cabinet as well as other local and historical imagery, together with the change of name to ‘The Moors Tavern’ provide the finishing touches to Spennymoor’s latest community asset. Spennymoor Town FC have invested substantially alongside Red Oak Taverns to help bring The Moors Tavern back to life.
