THE New Inn in Wilsden is much more than a pub - it’s a thriving community hub. Scouts, Brownies, craft-makers, the WI, Wilsden in Bloom and parish council have all met there, and licensee Miguel Schreck celebrates landmark events with quirky decorations.

“We had a copy of the Olympic torch in the 2012 Olympics. I held an RNLI fundraiser for the Titanic centenary with a ship’s bow protruding from the pub. I stuck a ‘Lancaster bomber’ over the front door for Battle of Britain celebrations, in aid of the RAF Benevolent fund - and everyone remembers getting free beer when my country, Portugal, won the Euros in 2016,” says Miguel, who initially worked at the 1800s pub as a manager. It was run by his cousin, and when she moved away he took it on.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

The New Inn dates back to the 1800s

“I’ve tried many things - quiz nights, pool teams, darts, dominoes, karaoke, rock ‘n’ roll bingo, music, themed nights - but people just want a good old boozer; good ale and company,” he says.”The community regard the pub as the hub of what goes on. If it’s a landmark year - VE Day etc - flags come out, posters go up and my enthusiasm, though mocked by my regulars, knows no bounds. Being Portuguese, I have an affinity for European cuisine and drinks so I keep one Continental lager on tap and one of our best-selling wines is a Spanish Rioja, where I once spent a summer harvesting grapes and learning about wine. My next goal is to visit Scottish distilleries and expand my portfolio of single malts.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

The pub sells a wide selection of gins and around 30 single malts

During lockdown Miguel revamped the pub: “I took out the pool table, decorated and re-floored, making a cosy room with autographed sports memorabilia. I’ve spaced out tables and seating, giving the place a roomier feel but welcoming. I changed the car park into a seating area and the beer deck has a gazebo. As I was in the top 10 Dog Friendly Pubs list, furry friends are welcome, with treats and fresh water available.

“Re-thinking outside areas was a priority; I’m happy with what we’ve achieved and confident of our compliance with regulations.

“At first I was apprehensive and hoped that by staying closed a bit longer, restrictions would be lifted completely. I served outside only for the first three weeks. Once regulars, and newcomers, got used to the ‘new normal’ I decided we could serve indoors safely.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Outdoor seating and gazebo

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

The pub was revamped in lockdown, creating a cosy but spacious feel

“For now it’s business as usual and I’m already planning Oktoberfest, our annual German beer weekender, Christmas and next year’s Pork Pie Competition, a highlight of the year for regulars. We have the best pork pies in the area - we challenge anyone to say they’re not!”

* The New Inn, Main Street, Wilsden. Tel. (01535) 275400.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Autographed sports memorabilia is on display

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