LATICS legends Andy Ritchie and Rick Holden were guests of honour as Shaw newest’s business opened its doors for the first time.
And Martyn Finnigan, owner of Gin Gin on Milnrow Road, hopes his first venture into the licensing trade, will help breathe new life into the town centre.
While ‘Stitch’ made the short trip from his Shaw home for the opening night on Friday, March 1, Holden flew in from the Isle of Man to ensure a memorable night for customers.
“It is an ideal location for a bar, bang in the centre of Shaw,” said Martyn.
“It’s been about a year in the planning and there have been plenty of hurdles and obstacles to overcome.
“But we’re open now and early feedback has been great. Royton has been getting all the glory recently.
“However, there is no reason why Shaw shouldn’t be a popular place to come for a night out. It is an affluent area in its own right.
“We’ve got ideal transport links because of the Metrolink station which Royton hasn’t got. So, people don’t need to go into Oldham or Manchester, they can come to Shaw.
“As a Latics fan, it was great to see Andy and Rick on the opening night. It made it a really special occasion.”
Martyn has nearly 40 gins available including a wide range of products from Paul Sheerin’s Lees distillery, Defiance.
“I am not trying to break any world records like the Old Bell in Delph but we will be looking to increase the range.”
Martyn is a vehicle assessor by profession but saw Gin Gin as an ideal investment opportunity.
“Mind you, there’s been so much to do I have hardly managed to have a drink myself!”
• Gin Gin is closed Monday and Tuesday but open on Wednesday from 5pm-10.30pm, Thursday from 5-11pm, Friday from 4pm to 1am, Saturday from 2pm to 1am and Sunday from 2pm-10.30pm.