I watched the pub erupt when Nigel Farage pulled his first pint of ‘remainer tears’

The venue, located on the corner of Milbourne Street and Talbot Road, has been transformed into a community hub for Reform UK, symbolising the party’s growing grassroots presence across the country.

Farage’s visit to The Talbot was marked by cheers, selfies and conversations over pints as locals turned out in force to meet him. The atmosphere was upbeat and celebratory, with many attendees describing the occasion as a ‘brilliant day for Blackpool’.

Reform UK representative for Bispham, William Banks said: “It was fantastic to welcome Nigel to the Talbot Reform pub. His visit brought a real buzz to the area and it was great to see so many people engaging in lively political discussions.

“We believe it’s vital to have these kinds of open dialogues, and the Talbot Reform provides the perfect setting for that.

“We were proud to showcase Blackpool as a place where diverse opinions can be shared and debated, especially when for so long, successive governments have forgotten about Blackpool.”

Mark Butcher, Chairman of Blackpool & Fleetwood Reform UK said: “It was great to welcome Nigel to Blackpool yesterday - the atmosphere at the Talbot was electric.

“When the boss pulled his first pint of remainer tears, the whole place erupted. Our members were absolutely thrilled - it’s not everyday you share a drink with a man who’s reshaped British politics.

“He’s looking incredibly likely to become the next elected Prime Minister.”

The pub serves not just as a place to relax, but as a local centre for political engagement, campaign meetings and community discussion.

The visit came on the heels of a by-election win in Fleetwood’s Warren ward, where Reform UK candidate David Shaw secured a seat on the local council. The double success - a symbolic opening in Blackpool and a victory at the ballot box was viewed by many Reform supporters as a significant momentum boost ahead of the general election.

Looking ahead, Farage confirmed plans to escalate pressure on Blackpool Council, and also pledged to follow up on other local concerns raised by residents during his visit.

The Talbot is expected to remain a focal point for Reform activity in the North West, as the party seeks to convert rising poll numbers into seats at the next election.

Whether a political pub becomes a lasting trend remains to be seen, but in Blackpool at least, pints and politics seem to be going hand in hand.