THE TENANT of a Wrexham venue says he believes that people are starting to view the city in a 'positive light'.

Mike Roberts has been a long-term leaseholder at the Ironworks on Town Hill for a number of years.

Since then, much has changed, with the covid-19 pandemic forcing the business - like many others - to adapt to the new world we now live in.

Mike's venue, which doubles up as a pub and a place for revellers to enjoy the dancefloor, was one of those impacted by the restrictions.

But, he now believes that 'nightlife' is starting to pick up again around the city due to its many 'fantastic' bars and venues.

He said: "Pre-covid, we were ridiculously busy, always to the capacity on a Saturday night especially. But, we have been hit hard as we have gone down from having four 'strong' nights, to just the one now.

"I do think though that, while the town hasn't recovered at all and is a little bit behind Chester, that nightlife is picking up again.

"There are some fantastic bars around the town and place to eat like; The Bank, Lisbon Tapas, Fat Boar, Anise, Ijazz, Lemon Tree, Gousto Italia and Thai Dine to name just a few and we need to shine a positive light on that.

"I'm not from Wrexham originally, but I want to help it get back to where it used to be and should be.

"There is far less trouble now than there was twenty years ago. But, of course, once that one bit of trouble does happen, it's always noted.

"But, we should be encouraging people to come and enjoy the best bits that Wrexham has to offer." 

This month, Mike has been doing his bit for the community by keeping people in employment. 

He has so far taken on two new staff members from ATIK nightclub after it was forced to close suddenly due to surges in the cost of bills.

He said:  "We are aiming to take some more people on if things go okay. We are working with other bars to keep people in employment. I have said to them though that if ATIK was to re-open under a different name, I'd understand if they'd want to go back there."

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Last year, Ironworks became the venue for travelling away fans to enjoy a drink or two before Wrexham AFC matches.

Mike added: "We were approached by the police to do that for them, as we have a very good relationship with North Wales Police.

"We have a zero drugs policy and we want fans who travel to the city to be able to come in and have a drink without any hassle. We've had some big games on and it's been great."

Mike also hailed the impact of the football club's Hollywood takeover for helping 'raise the profile' of Wrexham.

The Leader: PIC: Outside seating area at Ironworks in Wrexham.

He said: "What Rob (McElhenney) and Ryan (Reynolds) have done has just been crazy, in a good way.

"This town needs some positivity and that has helped massively. The football is helping raise the profile of the place and bringing people from all over in."

"We need to encourage people to see Wrexham in a positive light. The good times will come back if people start believing in this town."

Mike said that Ironworks will be hosting its regular family fundays throughout the year to help bring some cheer to those in the community.