The Tappers Harker in Long Eaton reopened on 25th March. It is the next local Marston’s pub to be relaunched under the new sports concept, Grandstand, with new market-leading big screen technology, menus, and events
The Tappers Harker has undergone an exciting refurbishment, reopening as a ‘Grandstand’ sports pub, following an investment of over £285,600.
The much-loved community pub has been transformed with new features, including the very best technology to guarantee each visit rivals a stadium experience.
The Tappers Harker has officially reopened its doors alongside its chosen community hero, Sasha Brooker. A professional female boxer, Sasha is a natural fit for the pub’s strong sporting focus. Beyond the ring, Sasha does a lot of charity work and fundraising, something the pub is eager to support, while also running her own local dog-walking business.
New market-leading technology has been installed, including a 3-metre-long and 1.68-metre-tall screen, state-of-the-art sound systems, and flexible tiered seating, guaranteeing a great view of the action. Outdoor bars with screens have been added, and the all-new Marston’s ‘Order & Pay’ app will now allow locals to order from their tables, ensuring they never miss a minute of the action.
The Tappers Harker has been decorated with local sports memorabilia. It is on the hunt for photographs and merchandise, giving pub-goers the chance to fill the walls and celebrate the achievements of local sports stars and teams, past and present.
The pub will show all key sporting fixtures, including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, F1, darts, horse racing, you name it, they will show it! Regulation dart boards and pool tables will provide entertainment well after the final whistle, with new competition leagues and ‘free to play’ recreational sessions taking place throughout the week.
A new range of bar food has been introduced, perfect for half-time and for sharing. The ‘Match Day Menu’ will feature hand-held bites, such as chicken wings and nachos, sitting alongside pub favourites such as fish and chips and burgers. The pub has also refreshed its range of drinks, and all draught beer is available in 2-pint cups.
There will also be the chance for local sports teams to get their hands on a ‘Black Card’, securing them endless chips when they visit for team drinks, and even more rewards if they win their game.
The new Grandstand concept has been introduced after industry research* revealed that 8.5M consumers have watched sports games at the pub, and 86% of sports fans say that they watch games at sports pubs due to a livelier atmosphere, better screens, sound, and connecting with friends and family.
Marston’s picked the Tappers Harker as one of the pubs to receive the Grandstand makeover due to its involvement with local sports teams, community groups and charities. The refurbishment has created a new and exciting proposition for local sports fans from Long Eaton and beyond.
Pub partner, Ashley Hewson, said: “We’ve loved welcoming the community back with open arms! The response has been fantastic to our food and drink offers, as well as the new technology to watch all kinds of sports – we’re thankful that our pub is always full of good vibes, and real community spirit.”
The Tappers Harker reopened on 25th March.
