A PUB which has played a pivotal role in securing Bradford’s position as a “great beer destination” is to reopen under the wing of the Kirkstall Brewery.

The Sparrow, on North Parade, opened its doors seven years ago, marking the street's resurgence as a 'go to' destination in the city.

But owners Marko Husak and Les Hall say its now time to "handover the baton".

The pub has been closed for refurbishment and is due to reopen on Friday, with a weekend of events planned to mark the occasion.

John Kelly from Kirkstall Brewery said: "This is not just a random acquisition, The Sparrow has a very special place in our hearts. We’ve been working with Marko and Les since day one almost seven years ago and have joyfully seen Sparrow turn a previously beer-barren Bradford into a great beer destination.

"It was a real gamble at the time and there were plenty of naysayers waiting for it to fall down. Thankfully, it went from strength to strength and has become the acclaimed Sparrow we all know today."

And the brewery has moved to reassure those with any fears the pub may lose its independence and won't be the same.

John said: "We are an independent local business with no desire to bring anything to the Sparrow but positives. We do intend to increase the range of beers available but have no intention of changing the laid-back, welcoming and familiar atmosphere.

"Of course Kirkstall beers will be a permanent feature alongside some of the best keg and cask beers from our favourite breweries, both from the UK and abroad."

Les and Marko said: "Seven years years ago we realised our dream to open a small beer focused venue in Bradford. We found an empty shop unit on North Parade and thought that it would be perfect for a European inspired bar, the kind you find in Belgium or Holland.

"A lot of people thought we were crazy and didn’t give us a chance but we proved them wrong. There are now nine bars on the street.

"We were the first and we feel that we have contributed greatly to Bradford’s night time economy."

They added: "Running The Sparrow, a small independent business, has been fun and rewarding but after seven great years happily serving beautiful beer to the people of Bradford we think its the right time to handover the baton and let the good guys at Kirkstall Brewery continue the legacy that we created."

Two cask and two keg lines will be added to the bar, bringing the total number of draught beer lines to 16. Les will be still in charge of all day to day management of The Sparrow and Marko will help out in the background.

To mark the reopening, a celebration weekend is planned. Friday will include Indian street food from Marko's venture Bundobust from 5pm until 10pm.

On Saturday, there will be Polish pierogi from Smak Deli from 1pm until 8pm, Sunday will feature No Hands DJs and on Monday there will be live folk and blues from Skiffle Inc, Serious Sam Barrett and Del Scott Miller from 4pm until 7.30pm.