A Bury town centre bar boss has spoken of the economic challenges the venue has faced since it opened three years ago.

The Broad Street Social, run by Jennifer Smith and David Thorley, first opened in August 2020.

Jennifer also runs Brewsmith Beer in Ramsbottom with her husband James Smith.

It has been a tough few years for most businesses amid the pandemic and the cost of living crisis, with the hospitality industry hit hard.

She said: “We set out to serve our beers in our local town, in a bar we would want to drink in.

“The pandemic delayed those plans, and restrictions meant reducing our offer, but the past year has seen the bar really take off.”

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Serving a mixture of Brewsmith cask beers, guest ales, selected wines through suppliers, gins and whiskies, the bar has a warm, relaxed feel and built up a loyal customer base.

David said: “It’s such a brilliant place to work.

“On any one day you can have a catch up with familiar faces and then a conversation with day trippers from the East Lancashire Railway or visitors to The Met who have sought us out via the good beer guide or recommendations through friends.”

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The pair are optimistic for the future with Jennifer invited onto the board of the recently formed Bury Business Improvement District (BID).

She said: “We are really excited for the next year, with plans for Christmas lights and events across the town centre to bring in new visitors.

“The BID is really adding that extra that Bury needs to showcase our brilliant town.

“We are proud to be a part of it.”

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David and Jennifer will be celebrating three years since the bar opened with friends and customers at the venue, thanking them all for their ongoing support.

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