Popular canalside pub, The Shroppie Fly in Audlem, is to close on Monday 26 January for a full month, allowing a £200,000 refurbishment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs.

The community and destination pub will reopen on Thursday 26 February with a new menu, wider drinks selection and improved sports offer.

The sympathetic revamp will retain the pub's traditional character and renowned boat themed bar whilst improving comfort and facilities.

Changes to the interior will include different height leather and fabric covered seating and new bric-a-brac such as bird and insect wildlife prints on the walls.

The distinct boat bar, flagstone and timber flooring are all being renovated and classic pendant and wall mounted lights fitted.

The darts area is also being upgraded to include halo darts with an electronic scorer.

Outside, the pub is to benefit from a complete facelift, redecorated in Airforce blue and white colours with black and gold signage, new planters and picnic benches.

The Shroppie Fly will continue to have a cask focus as well as offer an extensive drinks selection for every time of day including coffee.

The new menu is designed to offer something for everyone including a kids' selection and will change with the seasons.

It will feature pub classics such as burgers, fish and chips and grilled steak, gammon and chicken.

Food will be available throughout the week with tailored promotions, such as Fish Fridays, for different days.

The changes will see publican, Dale Avis, run The Shroppie Fly on behalf of Star Pubs following the retirement of the previous landlord.

Dale has been the general manager at the pub for three years, during which time it has become a real hub for the boating fraternity, villagers, walkers and local sports teams.

The new landlord told Nub News: "Thank you to all our regulars for your support over the years and making me feel so welcome. I have worked in hospitality all my life and had some of my best moments at The Shroppie Fly.

"Learning about canals has been fascinating and I love the regulars that use The Shroppie Fly and the real community spirit.

"I am looking forward to opening the doors and welcoming regulars back and new customers on 26 February and showing off the revamped pub which will improve comfort whilst retaining its all-important heart.

"There is also the Music Festival in May to plan for and look forward to. As the pub with the largest garden, The Shroppie Fly will host the main stage where many of the acts will perform.

"So do come along and of course do drop in before; you'll be sure of a warm welcome."

The Shroppie Fly hosts many local clubs and community groups including an arts group, book and chess clubs, folk and Irish music get-togethers and even hurdy-gurdy performances.

It also has open mic nights and regular live music and is home to the Historic Boats Society.

The plan is to add dominoes and a weekly pub quiz to the pub's many activities when it reopens and to show Sky and TNT sports.

Star Pubs Business Development Manager, Andrew Myatt, said: "We're delighted to be upgrading The Shroppie Fly, building on its popularity.

"The investment will take the pub to a new level, improving the surroundings for its many regulars and the food and drink offer.

"Wishing residents and visitor many happy days ahead at The Shroppie Fly and a belated happy new year to all." 

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