A NEW microbar launched by a Silsden couple is going down a treat with the public.

Steve and Julia McNamara opened the doors of The Mess Room in August.

And already the premises have hosted more than 30 events and attracted thousands of customers.

In the coming months, the couple – who are currently helped by family members – hope to recruit at least two part-time workers.

The Mess Room – which occupies a former shop by the canal basin in Coach Street, Skipton – offers a range of real ales, craft beers, artisan spirits and live music.

Steve and Julia took over the lease on the property in April, and spent four months carrying out extensive conversion work.

Former civil engineer Steve – who is also a musician and artist, and is in charge of the cask ales and craft beers at The Mess Room – said all the hard work had been worthwhile.

“We have put our hearts and souls into the place,” he said.

“I am particularly proud of the real ales and craft beers we serve. I love the fact that we are completely independent and get to source our drinks from a wide range of fantastic breweries.

“We regularly change our beers line-up, and the customers really seem to enjoy it.”

Julia – who used to work in events and marketing – focuses on sourcing the wines, gins, rums and other spirits.

Plus she spends countless hours listening to musicians, with the aim of bringing a variety of music to the venue.

The couple also organise events, including a ‘cheese and vinyl Sunday’ and comedy nights.

Julia said she was delighted to see their vision become reality. “We wanted to create a place where our customers feel completely relaxed – a little bit like they are at a small, impromptu gathering in a friend’s living room!” she said.

The Mess Room is open Wednesdays to Sundays.