The historic Grove Inn, which nestles under Bridgewater Place in Holbeck, suffered an arson attack yesterday (21 November 2023) and has had to close its doors until repairs can be carried out.
In a statement, West Yorkshire Police said:
“Police in Leeds are investigating after an attempted robbery and arson of a pub on Back Row in Holbeck.
“Officers were initially called at 2pm yesterday to reports a man had entered the property with a hammer and made threats to staff. The man also damaged a window and a machine inside the property. Officers attended and the man had left the area.
“At 10pm, a further report was received at the same location, reporting the man had returned and had started a fire inside the property. The fire was contained in one room and was extinguished. No one was injured during the incident.
“A 42-year-old man has been arrested in connection with both incidents and remains in police custody at this time. Enquiries remain ongoing with Leeds CID.
“Anyone with information that may assist the ongoing investigation is asked to contact Leeds CID via the LiveChat function on the website or by calling 101 quoting reference 13230645778. Information can also be given to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The pub, which dates back to 1832 and retains its original four room and corridor layout, has been an important live music venue for decades.
Fi McMillan, the Grove’s Events Manager, told South Leeds Life:
“We’re feeling pretty empty right now at The Grove, but we’re all believers in live music and all have a roll to play to keep live music live. The Grove will need some repairs and will reopen as soon as possible with all those bands and followers eager to get back to normal. In the meantime I’m working with a couple of other Leeds venues to try and find a way to get dates for the bands who I’ve had to cancel til we’re back up and running. Follow the Grove Inn on Facebook for our constant updates.
“All our 3pm Sunday bands have been moved to The Duck & Drake, which is part of our company and will support us by putting on as many bands as possible.”
Moves are already underway to organise a benefit concert to help the The Grove get back on its feet.
Photo: Google Streetview
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