A former Conservative club in Blackpool has rebranded itself as Britain's first Reform UK pub. The Talbot, which previously operated as a Tory club, now proudly displays "The Talbot: Reform UK Club" on its sign.
Co-owners Pete Flynn and his business partner put up the new signs over the weekend, marking the establishment's transformation.
The venue aims to serve as a gathering place for Reform UK members and supporters, while remaining open to the general public.
The pub is located in Blackpool South, a constituency where Reform UK finished second in last July's election.
Pete Flynn is a huge fan of Nigel Farage
GB NEWS / PA
Pete Flynn, co-owner of The Talbot, spoke to Martin Daubney on GB News about the rebranding.
"We wanted to be the first Reform club. We're both Reform members. We love Nigel Farage - so it's fantastic," Flynn said.
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He dismissed claims that the pub would be a "den for racists" or exclusive to Reform members.
"If Jeremy Corbyn walked in - he would have to have his picture taken and he'd be charged twice the price," Flynn joked.
"But on a serious point, there's no racism here, I can assure you that. We're just positive," he added.
"It's not membership only, we're a pub. Everybody and anyone is welcome. If you want a side order of politics with your pint, I'm happy to help.
Flynn joined Martin Daubney on GB News
GB NEWS
The Talbot is offering special promotions to attract customers to the newly rebranded venue.
"We're running a promotion through May which is two pints for £6," Flynn told GB News.
The pub also features menu items with political themes.
"We serve gammon with two large duck eggs and it's the best gammon in Blackpool," Flynn said.
Nigel Farage is riding the crest of a political wave after Reform's huge gains at the local elections
PAHe confirmed with humour that they also "serve pints of Remainer tears."
The establishment is still in its early days as a Reform UK venue.
"Me and my business partner put the signs up over the weekend and yesterday was our first day. We're only on our second day and I am on the telly," Flynn remarked.
The rebranding of The Talbot appears to be part of a broader strategy by Reform UK to establish a physical presence beyond traditional political structures.
A senior party source confirmed to The Spectator that the Blackpool venue was "the first of many" Reform UK clubs.
"First we replaced the Tories last week at the local elections, now we are replacing their clubs too," the source said.
The party seems to be targeting former Conservative strongholds as it expands its influence.
"Reform UK is more than just a political party, it's a movement and this is just the beginning," the source added.
