THE STAR INN
We're reeling off all the pubs that have gone in Broughton over the last few years – The House That Jack Built, the Albert Park come to mind…and The Horseshoe, literally next door to the tinned up Star Inn, tucked away down a tiny cobbled street right at the very top of Lower Broughton Road…
"There's nothing left for this community but we like going out" says Jane Rock, who's stood with a wallpaper stripper in her hand, trying to get the steamer to work.
Jane is one of the fifty odd volunteers who are determined that the Star Inn won't just be another Salford pub fatality. A constant stream of people are working on the boozer's makeover, determined to get it open well in time for Christmas.
"Everyone's just pitching in and doing what they can" Jane adds "I can strip walls and paint, and we all know a plumber, joiner or electrician who can help out. It's a real community effort, there's so many people involved."
Around thirty Star Inn enthusiasts have put the money up to buy the pub which is going to be owned and run by its regulars.
"I don't know who suggested it in the first place" says Jane "but within a few days we had a meeting and the pub was full with everybody going `Right, let's do it'. I think that when it's open lots of people will start to come here because it's ours, it's for the community."
Before the community can begin to drink here the toilets have got to be sorted. There's no disabled people's toilets, and the Ladies were originally built outside. They came up with the Bog Aid concept to raise money for the new loos and the big benefit at St Boniface Social Club this week.
Folk bands and local indie bands will be performing, kids will be running stalls selling their DVDs and games, and the raffle will include vouchers for car washes and haircuts donated by local businesses. Julie Hesmondhalgh is bringing Corrie merchandise, Hooky's given a signed book and some top CDs, and Bazens' Brewery, currently based across the road from the Star Inn, is donating a barrel of beer. Salford Council Leader, John Merry, has donated two tickets for the Swinton Ice Rink.
The taps, sinks and toilets of the new look pub will also be up for adoption on the night, and the lucky bidders will have a plaque in the new loos with their name, or chosen name, proudly displayed.
A great Christmas present for the person who's got everything? A hot tap for a hot lover? And a toilet for…well, use your imagination!
BOG AID is at St Boniface Social Club, 250 Lower Broughton Road, M7 2JX
Friday 27th November 7:00pm £5 on the door.
For further details phone Bev on 07951 886588
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