A PUB company has moved to quell speculation that it has bought a soon-to-close Wetherspoon's branch in the Bradford district. 

As reported by the Telegraph & Argus yesterday, JD Wetherspoon has confirmed it will shut The Sir Norman Rae, on Market Square in Shipley, on March 24.

The pub chain said it had sold the popular venue as part of a "commercial decision" - but would not disclose the buyer. 

Following the announcement, the Telegraph & Argus saw comments on social media claiming that it had been acquired by Black Star Pubs, which recently bought The Percy Shaw in Halifax - another Wetherspoon boozer - in January.

But Mark Gledhill, managing director at Black Star Pub, told the Telegraph & Argus today: "Black Star Pubs did view and make offers on The Sir Norman Rae but were unsuccessful in our attempts to purchase the property.

"We wish the new owners the best of luck with the site. 

"We continue our hunt for suitable venues around the Yorkshire region to continue our expansion plans."

The Sir Norman Rae made several appearances in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide. 

The 2023 entry highlighted how it was a "typical conversion" by Wetherspoon and a "popular feature of the town centre". 

It also referred to its close proximity to the town's rail station and bus interchange. 

Peter Down, pubs officer for the Bradford branch of CAMRA, described the closure of The Sir Norman Rae as "sad news".

He added: "The Sir Norman Rae has been a popular destination in the town centre. 

"The pub has always featured a great, varying selection of real ales - and the promotion of it, at a reasonable price, has been a credit to the management and staff there.

"The news about the pub's closure is yet another blow to Shipley. 

"It follows the recent closure of the Old House at Home, the news regarding the sale of the Sun Hotel and the closure of various other business around the town. 

"While news of its future is awaited, it is hoped the new owners of The Sir Norman Rae will keep the business running as the popular pub it currently is."

On the Telegraph & Argus' Facebook page, many people said they were sad to learn of the pub's closure.

Christine Shaw said: "I'll miss it.

"It was always somewhere I could go in alone and feel comfortable."

Amanda Griffiths added: "It's a shame - it's a very nice, busy pub."