A town centre pub has had a major makeover and a fitting name change.

The former Railway pub on Blackburn Road in Accrington has been transformed into a vibrant, bustling sports bar, and renamed The Stanley - after the town's beloved football club. 

Inglenook Inns and Taverns, who run the pub, said they wanted to be part of the new plans to regenerate Accrington town centre and have started making moves to refurbish other pubs in the area after ploughing £200,000 into The Stanley.

The pub, which relaunched on Friday May 20, is being run by Tina Bishop, who has run the Grey Horse for Inglenook for a number of years.

Lancashire Telegraph:

A spokesperson for Inglenook said: "Not only are we your very best premium Sports Bar in Accrington, but if it's nightlife you are after, we tick that box in spades too.

"After an extensive £200,000 investment, both inside and out, if live sport is your game, The Stanley is the perfect venue.

"If you can’t make it to the ground, this is the next best thing.

"Plus we have all your favourite beers and ‘food for sport’ is coming soon.

"Our impressive decked area to the rear (with its own bar) provides a sun trap and a private beer terrace."

Lancashire Telegraph:

A number of giant screens have been purchased for the venue and the pub now boasts an extensive range of world beers, carefully kept cask, and value for money wines, as well as spirits and cocktails, and will be hosting live entertainment throughout the week. 

Manager Tina Bishop said: "I’m so proud to  be running such an amazing venue – there’s something for everyone – best sports bar, great entertainment and we are doing our bit in the regeneration of Accrington."

Bosses at Inglenook Inns and Taverns are also currently investing in the Queens Hotel, Eastgate by providing it with a facelift both inside and out.

The Thorn Inn at Church and the Royal Oak at Clayton-le-Moors have been rebranded and previous operators have been given the chance to run their own businesses.

James Waddington, CEO of the pub group said: "We believe in investment not only in buildings and business, but people too.

"We are proud and excited to be part of the bigger picture and want to contribute to the refurbishment of this iconic Lancashire town.

"Hard working people deserve well purposed buildings to enjoy their leisure time."