'It's time to say goodbye': 'Heartbreaking' loss of Calderdale pub and music venue shutting its doors
A Calderdale pub which has hosted gigs for more than a decade is closing its doors.
The Blind Pig on Tower Hill in Sowerby Bridge will shut later this month.
Landlady Julie Hall made the announcement on social media, saying: “It’s time to say goodbye!”
The Courier reported in May how Julie – who had been running the pub for 12 years – was looking to hand it over to someone new.
She has been working in pubs in and around Halifax and Sowerby Bridge for more than 40 years, and says she will miss her customers but will still be in charge at The Turks Head, also in Sowerby Bridge.
Julie thanked everyone who has supported her over the last 12 years, including staff, DJs and bands who have played at The Blind Pig.
"Along the way, I have had some amazing people work with me on this incredible journey!” she posted.
"I have tried my hardest for The Pig to remain a music venue for the future, I’m devastated that I haven’t achieved my wish. I know how important this place can be for the community.
"Sadly we will be closing the doors on Saturday, November 14. It’s Noise in the Valley, and the after party will now include my leaving party.”
She added a cabaret night on November 20 will still go ahead as planned.
"Go gentle with the team, this loss is heartbreaking to us all,” she said.
Customers and musicians have been expressing their sadness, with one posting: “Julie, you did an amazing job for the local music scene and treated all us musicians that played feel like royalty.”