A NEW local pub in the heart of St Helens town centre has enjoyed a positive first fortnight with visitors enjoying its cosy feel.

The Tipsy Tap threw open its doors on Ormskirk Street, St Helens within the Imperial Buildings, earlier this month.

Co-owners Ian Pitts and Rebecca Peacock transformed the former Cork and Dough pizza restaurant and Secret Garden bar into a traditional pub.

And pub-goers have been checking it out, enjoying the venue’s mix of beers and real ales. The pub's bosses feel its reasonable pricing is another attraction.

'Warm friendly atmosphere'

Rebecca told the Star: “We’ve been really happy with the response.

“We had plenty of people coming here - and have regulars already. It has that warm, friendly atmosphere that we were looking for.

“We’ve had groups in enjoying watching Liverpool football in midweek and good crowds on Saints nights.

“It’s the big boxing fight this weekend too [Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois], so we’re looking forward to a good night showing the action on our big screens.

“But there’s more to us here as well - we’re open from 11am (Wednesday to Sunday) and serve teas and coffees too.”

Mark of quality

Ian, who is developing units next door in which he hopes to attract restaurants, believes The Tipsy Tap has delivered another quality pub for St Helens - which can add to the likes of The Cricketers, The Lamb, Cinema bar and the Turks Head.

“People want good places to go and there are a number of quality pubs around St Helens."

With its open brickwork, wooden furniture and cosy corners, The Tap is aiming to appeal to pub lovers who love a good pint and a friendly chat.

It has a distinctively St Helens feel, with old pictures of the borough hanging from the walls. A log fire is expected to be installed to add to the cosy atmosphere.

With a series of big screens across the venue it will also look to pull in visitors who want to watch live sport.