An award-winning pub and microbrewery in Stockport has announced its closure after more than a year of lockdowns and restrictions.
The Hope in Stockport, which is also home to the Fool Hardy Ales brewery, said in a statement that it was time to “step into new pastures” and that the pub and brewery were up for sale.
The Heaton Norris pub was first opened in 2012 by brewer Martin Wood, who made headlines across the country last year after being struck by lightning twice.
Read more: Stockport locals are overjoyed when the nightclub in a barn in Bredbury Hall announces its return
The pub’s regular customers and brewery colleagues have all expressed their support for the business and said it was a “big loss” for Stockport.
A statement posted on Fool Hardy Ales’ Twitter account said the three bans England has put in place since the pandemic began – two of which were consecutive to wet-run pubs under the tiered system – played a role in decision.
The statement reads: “After 3 lockdowns, 2 of which merged into one long one for us, I lost my mojo and my love for the pub and after much deliberation I decided that I have to start a new one and that it could possibly be my last chapter .
Martin Wood, center, in The Hope
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“I know there will be some very disappointed loyal customers and all I can say is sorry and thank you for your habit and loyalty over the years.
“Since I bought The Hope in 2012 I have achieved a lot and won many awards for both the Pub and the Fool Hardy Ales, which I am very grateful for, but unfortunately I have the visions I have for the brewery had set, due to circumstances not reached Beyond my control!
“You have to take the rough with the smooth, especially in this job, and sometimes you just don’t get the breaks you were hoping for.”
The Heaton Norris pub is home to the Fool Hardy brewery
(Image: UGC MEN)
The pub will remain open for “at least three months,” it said, but Fool Hardy Ales will stop brewing early to sell all equipment and supplies.
The statement went on to thank everyone who has worked for the company over the years, “especially Lewis, who has been here since day one”.
It concluded, “Thank you again, the people of Stockport and the surrounding area are really great for accepting and supporting a grumpy Yorkshire man and his dreams. Thank you.”
Manchester-based Blackjack Brewing Co. responded, “Fool Hardy and The Hope are one of the reasons some of us are in business. Good luck in the future!”
Made Of Stone Brewery in Bramhall added, “Their operation inspired the creation of a brewery in the back of the Mounting Stone. Good luck in your new life. “
Beer writer John Clarke wrote, “This is going to be a very sad loss to the Stockport pub and beer scene. Martin made some good beers while at Hope. It’s a pub with a lot of potential so hopefully a buyer will come along.” Vision do this. ” come with me. “
Get the latest What’s On news – everything from food and drink to music and nightlife – straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter.
