New owner gives bar a sporting chance

Bar Sport, in Bridge Street, has been taken over by Cheshire businessman Malcolm Nicholls, who said he plans to take the venue from strength to strength.

A big hit with revellers and diners since it opened in the summer of 2001, the 7,000sq ft bar has endured a difficult year, which saw its previous owners hit first by serious financial problems followed by a break-in that saw thousands of pounds stolen.

But Mr Nicholls, who has come from senior posts with firms including beer giants Tetley's and 10-pin bowling chain Megabowl, said he hoped to eventually open new branches of Bar Sport. "In the long-term, we want to open more," he said.

"Coming from Cheshire, I'm very aware of the popularity of Rugby League up there and think that could be a sport we would focus on more in the future.

"I wouldn't rule out more in the Black Country, but I think it's the areas along the M6 corridor that we'll look at first."

With 70 high definition, plasma and giant screens, authentic sporting memorabilia decorating, a games zone with pool tables, table football and video sports simulators, the bar came on to the market during the summer. And Mr Nicholls said he was immediately keen on the idea of taking it over from the previous owners who still hold rights to the brand and still own the Cannock branch, which was launched by former boxer Scott Murray.

"I've always been in leisure and was looking to do something on my own within the industry, but this opportunity came along unexpectedly," said Mr Nicholls.

"This branch has always been a successful business and we're very excited about it. Football will always be at the heart of what we do here, given its unrivalled popularity, but I think we will also be looking to cater for the more marginal sports.

"However, although sport is the essence of what we're about, we're at the centre of the town and have a DJ every Friday and Saturday night, so we think there's something for everyone here."