Northampton's newest gastropub aims for a lockdown-era grand opening in July

The lockdown could not have come at a worse time for the Olde Cobbler.

Northampton's newest gastropub - in Acre Lane, Kingsthorpe - was just two weeks away from launching in April when the Government ordered all bars and restaurants in the country to shut.

For Matthew Turnbull and his team, who were poised to open their doors and welcome customers, it led to a hasty change of course.

But now, they are putting their plans in place for a lockdown-era Grand Opening.

Matthew told the Chronicle & Echo: "We were just adding the finishing touches to open and then the rug was pulled out from under us.

"We were absolutely devastated to be honest. We had put so much hard work into it and we didn't even get the chance to get the till ringing.

"But we've been positive. It's given us the opportunity and the time to review our offering and get everything perfect."

The new venture - which is opening on the former site of Kingsthorpe's Buddies USA burger restaurant - has been set up by the same team behind the Olde Victoria in Kettering.

Now, the Olde Cobbler is hoping to open its doors to customers in July - but are prepared to hold on a bit longer.

Matthew said: "We hope to open in July. July 4th is the date being thrown around for when pubs will reopen but we know that is still a long way away and that could change at any time.

"We're aiming for July - but we won't be doing it until we can do so safely and properly.

"In time want to be a part of the community with coffee mornings and serve as a venue."

The Government has outlined July 4 as the proposed date for when pubs and restaurants can open to customers again - but the date could change depending on the spread of coronavirus.