A mission to put Dewsbury back on the live music map has begun after a beleaguered pub is transformed into a vibrant new gig venue headed by renowned Evile bassist, Joel Graham.

Many people have already begun to flock to the Old Turk in Wellington Road, which has undergone a rags to riches makeover thanks to new owners, Beerhouses.

The Old Turk, Wellington Road, Dewsbury
The Old Turk, Wellington Road, Dewsbury

Once a popular haunt of Dewsbury’s rock and alternative crowd, it had been laying empty for more than two years after the previous owners put it up for sale.

Manager Joel, 37, hopes the venue , which will host regular nights featuring not just rock and metal artists but those from diverse backgrounds such as jazz, will buck the trend of pub closures currently taking place throughout the country.

Evile member Joel Graham with guitarist Piers Donno Fuller
Evile member Joel Graham with guitarist Piers Donno Fuller

He said: “It’s great to be able to breathe new life into the pub, which was very popular before it closed.

“It had a strong rock and metal history which we want to keep alive over the weekend but I also want it to become a hub for different acts, especially for up and coming musicians.

“At one point Dewsbury was the place to go for live music but this has dwindled over recent years, despite the fact that it still has a strong artistic community, many of whom have to go to Leeds or Huddersfield to play at the moment.

“Hopefully the pub will be able to bring these people together on their doorstep and promote the talent in the town and reinstate it as great place to go see bands.

“I want it to be a community venue so if anyone would like to exhibit or put on an event they can get in touch via our Facebook page."