Ex-England footballer John Barnes to appear at revamped Gospel Oak pub in Tipton
Football legend John Barnes is to make a special appearance at the newly refurbished Gospel Oak pub in Tipton.
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The pub, which has been transformed into Marston’s first ‘Grandstand’ sports pub, will host a sold-out launch event on Thursday April 24, featuring a Q&A session with the former England footballing star.
The Gospel Oak reopened its doors on April 19 just in time for the Easter weekend, unveiling state-of-the-art technology including large screens and sound systems, plus tiered seating, designed to rival a stadium experience.
The community pub, which has been decorated with local sporting memorabilia, also boasts new outdoor bars with screens, a ‘Match Day’ menu, and a variety of entertainment options including dart boards, pool tables, and live music.
Customers can also use the new Order & Pay app to order from their tables so they don't miss a minute of sporting action.
Firefighter Lee Poole joined general manager Michelle Wood to pour the first pint at the revamped pub, having been chosen as the pub's community hero as a result of his tireless work for the fire service and helping the local food bank.
The Gospel Oak was picked by Marston's as the first pub to receive the Grandstand makeover due to its involvement with local sports teams, community groups and charities.
General manager Michelle Wood said: “We are so excited to be chosen as the first local to re-open under as a Grandstand pub. We know our locals are sporting mad and can’t wait to be able to offer them the best possible experience when they visit us.
"We reopened just in time for the Easter weekend and loved inviting all our locals in to be the first to see the new and improved Gospel Oak.”
The new Grandstand concept has been introduced after industry research revealed 8.5 million consumers have watched sports games at the pub, and 86 per cent of sports fans saying they watch games at sports pubs due to a livelier atmosphere, better screens and sound, and to enjoy the experience with friends and family.
The Gospel Oak will show all key sporting fixtures, with dart boards and pool tables available to provide entertainment after the final whistle, plus new competition leagues and free recreational sessions taking place throughout the week.
The pub will also host weekly live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, regular quizzes and monthly rock-and-roll bingo.
A new range of bar food has been introduced alongside pub classics such as fish and chips, burgers and Sunday roasts, with the new ‘Match Day’ menu featuring hand-held bites including Pukka pies, sausage rolls and pasties.
All draught beer is available in two-pint cups and locals can enjoy 10 per cent off pre-match pints, for one hour before kick-off.
Pubgoers are invited to share photographs and merchandise for inclusion on the pub's walls which will celebrate local sports stars and teams, past and present.
