Indoor sports venue and bar now under new ownership

A GROUP of four families have taken over a popular indoor sports venue. 

The Cue Corner on Carden Street, Worcester, has come under new ownership, with four local families taking the reins and promising to put the venue “firmly on the map” as a hub for cue sports and socialising.

The group is made up of much of the team that runs Woo Fest – an award-winning, family festival that takes place in Upton upon Severn.

The venue, described by the new owners as a “hidden gem,” offers pool, darts, snooker, and live sport in a relaxed, community setting just off City Walls Road.

The ownership group includes Alexis Winwood, Leah Bunton, Mitchell Winwood, Joanne Simons, Luke Simons, Christopher Hayward, Michael Lambe and Dawn Hayward

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‘We genuinely care about Worcester’

Christopher Hayward, one of the new owners, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be taking over The Cue Corner.

“The previous owners have done a fantastic job bringing a dedicated cue sports venue back to Worcester, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they have achieved.

“Our aim is to build on that success, protect everything people already love about the club, give people even more reasons to visit and plenty of reasons to keep coming back.

“We’re all local people who genuinely care about Worcester and want to do the very best for our community.

“The Cue Corner is a little tucked away, but we want to put it firmly on the map.”

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“Exciting plans for the future”

The new ownership team brings experience in sales, construction, property maintenance, and business management—plus a genuine passion for cue sports, with three of the owners currently playing for local pool teams.

They plan to support existing leagues, teams, and competitions while exploring ways to nurture young talent and create a welcoming space for families, casual visitors, and serious players alike.

Mr Hayward said: “We have some exciting plans for the future, but our immediate priority is simple.

“We want to get into the business, get to know our customers, understand what people want from The Cue Corner and listen to their ideas.”

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“A real community asset”

Michael Lambe, another member of the team, said: “We see The Cue Corner as much more than a sports bar – it’s somewhere people can meet, socialise, compete and enjoy spending time together.

“Whether you’re an experienced player, someone looking to try pool, darts or snooker for the first time, or simply somewhere to watch live sport with friends, The Cue Corner is for you.

“We’d genuinely encourage people to pop in, meet us and share their thoughts.

“We’re particularly keen to place a greater focus on young people and help inspire the next generation of pool, darts and snooker players.

“We want The Cue Corner to become a real community asset, and the best way to achieve that is by listening to the people who use it.”

The Cue Corner has previously made headlines for members Casey Ranford-Norrey and Cameron Pinches, who compete in professional competition on the Ultimate Pool Tour.

Mr Pinches also serves as the bar’s general manager.