One Year at The Peacock: John Wilkins Thanks the Huddersfield Community That Backed Him

A year behind the bar is worth raising a glass to — especially when that year has thrown more than its fair share of challenges your way. This week Monkey GigsList Supporter The Peacock Inn on Leeds Road marks a full year under landlord John Wilkins, and John is celebrating by saying a very public thank-you to the people who have helped keep the pub going.

One year at The Peacock

John took over The Peacock a year ago and describes the first twelve months as difficult, with plenty of challenges and hurdles along the way. But the important bit is simple: he is still here, and he credits a huge part of that to the loyalty around the pub.

His anniversary message thanked the local regulars who have continued to support him, the team behind the bar, his family and friends, and the people who have stepped in with help and guidance when it was needed. He also singled out Sharon Blain, Babs Duggan, Lisa Joy, Richard Wagler and Jayne Wagler for their support from day one.

A proper Huddersfield community pub

The Peacock sits at 392 Leeds Road, Huddersfield, HD2 1XL. It is a familiar matchday stop for Huddersfield Town and Huddersfield Giants supporters, and John specifically thanked those fans for choosing the pub for their pre- and post-match drinks. CAMRA also describes the Peacock as a community local that gets very busy on matchdays and lists live music, events, karaoke and games among its facilities.

That community goes well beyond matchdays. John also thanked the Peacock's four pool teams and two domino teams for sticking with the venue, as well as the Sunday karaoke crowd who turn up week after week.

Friday: anniversary party with Wayne Simon

The first birthday celebration takes place this Friday, 25 September 2026. Live entertainment comes from Wayne Simon, with food also on offer. It is the main anniversary party and a chance for the regulars, matchday visitors and anyone who has supported the pub over the last year to celebrate the milestone with John and the Peacock team.

Sunday: a thank-you to the karaoke faithful

The celebrations do not stop on Friday. On Sunday, 27 September, the Peacock is holding a second party especially for its loyal karaoke customers — John's way of thanking the people who keep coming back every week.

Monkey Supporter Spotlight

The Peacock is a Monkey GigsList Supporter, and this is exactly why we bang the drum for local venues. Live music survives because pubs keep putting acts on, customers keep walking through the door and landlords keep going through the difficult weeks as well as the good ones. One year down for John Wilkins at The Peacock — here's to plenty more.

The Peacock Inn, 392 Leeds Road, Huddersfield, HD2 1XL. Anniversary party: Friday 25 September 2026 with live entertainment from Wayne Simon and food. Karaoke thank-you party: Sunday 27 September 2026.