New chapter opens for renowned pub
A landmark public house in Creggs, which had been closed for almost four years, has opened an exciting new chapter in its history.
Most recently trading as ‘Gannon’s’, this impressive premises has been given a beautiful ‘makeover’ and is now open to the public again.
The new proprietor is Joe Dolan, who says he has taken over the pub because of his confidence in Creggs as a “progressive village” which is centrally located.
For many decades the pub was run by the Featherstone family and was known as ‘The Feather Inn’. It was a popular establishment with generations of local families. In more recent times it was run by the Gannon family, up to its closure almost four years ago.
Mr. Dolan is also the proprietor of Dalton’s public house in Fuerty, which the Dolan family acquired during the summer.
A businessman with strong Roscommon roots, Joe Dolan recently moved back to Ireland after spending a number of years in the pub trade in London. Born in Drumshanbo in Co. Leitrim, Joe grew up in Knockvicar, Co. Roscommon and later lived in Roscommon Town, before moving to London.
The doors of this landmark pub – now ‘Dolan’s Bar’ – were recently reopened, unveiling a beautiful new décor. Dolan’s will feature live music, cater for parties, and will also be serving food.
Joe Dolan explained the rationale for making a business move which has given the village a great new impetus.
“After opening Dalton’s in Fuerty, I became aware of the fact that there was just one pub in Creggs…this is despite the fact that Creggs is a very progressive village. Creggs Rugby Club is a fantastic, progressive club which caters for a huge catchment area.
“The reaction of the public (since opening) has been very positive. We’re open just over three weeks now and it’s been very busy”.
Mr. Dolan, who is employing five local people in the pub, says there will be a special emphasis on hosting parties and social events.
“I think young people want more than a nightclub these days…they like the bar atmosphere, and there’s a huge ongoing revival of interest in country music at the moment. That younger generation is very much into country music so we will certainly be catering for them”.
Indeed Joe will be catering for all age groups, with Dolan’s being ideal for parties, big and small! Joe also has plans to serve food from morning ‘til late and will be introducing teas/coffees, soup and sandwiches, etc., beginning on Monday, November 25th.
Having now opened two landmark pubs in rural areas, Joe Dolan is to some extent bucking an industry trend. He insists that the traditional rural pub can remain at the heart of local communities.
“I absolutely believe that these pubs can be social hubs in this area…I have been overwhelmed by the response and support of people. I believe in these areas…if you take Creggs, there’s a great rugby club, likewise GAA, and also great community spirit”.
Gannon family thanked
Joe Dolan extends a big thank you to the Gannon family for all their assistance over recent weeks.
“I really want to thank Alan, Sharon and the Gannon family for their courtesy and cooperation during the transition period. They really bought into the vision we had for this premises and could not have been more supportive”.
