'It's a kick in the teeth' - Pub owners gutted after second break-in in 6 months
Dave Golden was excited for another day at The Blarney Stone in Bolton on Sunday, August 3, but was in for a rude awakening.
When he arrived at the Bradshawgate pub at around noon, he found that it had been broken into, with cash, an iPad used for the till, and numerous bottles of spirits having been taken.
This is not the first time this has happened, with the pub also having been burgled earlier this year, when spirits and electronics were taken.
The pub, which had previously been Prince Billy's, only reopened in late February this year.
Speaking to The Bolton News, Dave said: "It was on Sunday morning, I came in at around noon and realised that we had been broken into.
"It is a proper kick in the teeth, especially when we see ourselves moving in the right direction.
The Blarney Stone opened its doors on February 28 (Image: Newsquest)Read more: Popular town centre pub reopens – again - with a new look and name
Read more: Pub inspired by one of the 'most famous in the world' lands in Bolton
Read more: Popular town centre pub explains what will happen if you keeping stealing glasses
"The response we have had from people since opening is really good, we feel very welcome and people compliment the effort we put in.
"I came in all excited for the day and then that happened. But you just have to keep going."
As well as replacing the iPad and spirits, the pub has also had to call out workmen to repair it and make it more secure.
Dave added: "That Sunday afternoon we couldn't open up until later, we did open at 4pm but had to buy an iPad, all new spirits and we had to get some float in.
"Although it is disappointing, we will be back up and running again, we will keep fighting and keep moving.
"In general we feel incredibly welcomed to Bolton by everyone."
The Blarney Stone is the only Irish pub in Bolton.
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