Shift leader’s book club brings bibliophiles to The Bradley Green

During May 2024, shift leader Christine celebrated one year’s work with Wetherspoon.

With previous experience in customer care, Christine joined the team at The Bradley Green (Biddulph) as a bar associate and has quickly progressed to gain promotion.

Also studying a level 2 hospitality apprenticeship, Christine has set up a book club in her own time, as part of her course work project.

Christine, 45, said: “I’ve always loved to read and didn’t have anyone to talk to about books or reading.

“When the opportunity came up to organise an event at the pub, I sent a message on a local social media group just to see whether anyone might be interested.

“To my surprise, the group has really taken off, with some members not previously customers at the pub.”

Held at The Bradley Green on the first Monday of every month (unless a bank holiday, when the group moves to the second Monday), the group has attracted a dozen or more avid readers.

A monthly book raffle, the day after each book club event, also raises funds for Young Lives vs Cancer.

Christine added: “We have also had a couple of authors come to the group meeting to talk about their new books, as well as how they started writing, which has really made for interesting sessions.

“We have read and reviewed the books too – and I’ve also ensured that the local library has received a copy, as it is also really on board with the book group.”

Christine concluded: “The whole project has been an amazing success, attracting new customers and really bringing the community together – everyone seems grateful for it.”