Comedian Jon Richardson is trading punchlines for pub pulls as he embarks on a mission to revive The Plough at Fadmoor, a historic North Yorkshire pub that has been closed for 14 years. The endeavor, documented in the More4 series Our Yorkshire Pub Rescue, isn’t going exactly as planned, offering a humorous and often chaotic glimpse into the realities of rural pub restoration. The series highlights the challenges of breathing new life into a beloved community space, and the lengths Richardson and local volunteers are going to in order to succeed.
The initial vision of revealing the pub’s original stonework through sandblasting hit a snag, uncovering not charming stonework but a mess of breeze blocks, dampness, and rotting window frames. This unexpected setback has led to mounting costs and a scramble for fundraising ideas. As reported by MemorableTV, one such idea involved a rather unconventional approach: auctioning off a sheep.
This led to a memorable scene of Richardson attempting to corral a sheep in a field, a task proving more difficult than anticipated. The comedian’s foray into animal husbandry is just one example of his immersion into Yorkshire life. Alongside the physical restoration, Richardson is also learning the local customs, including the fiercely competitive world of dominoes leagues. This immersion is a key element of the show, demonstrating the importance of understanding and integrating into the community he’s trying to help.
The Plough, dating back to 1782, represents a significant piece of Yorkshire’s pub history. As The Yorkshireman notes, Richardson became part-owner of the pub when he learned it was facing closure, driven by a genuine love for pubs – a passion he jokingly admits led him to even build one in his garage. The series, produced by Full Fat TV, will air in two four-episode runs on More4, beginning on February 4th, 2026.
The restoration project isn’t solely Richardson’s undertaking. He’s working closely with the Fadmoor Community Pub Limited team, tackling renovations, fundraising, and exploring sustainable practices. Publicist Debbie and hospitality consultant Jacquie are also involved, scouting out local competition to understand the landscape and identify opportunities for The Plough. The show promises a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of restoring a historic pub, and the dedication of a community determined to save it.
Here’s a glimpse of Richardson’s sheep-farming adventure:
The series premiered on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, at 9:00pm on More 4, according to MemorableTV. The show’s success hinges not only on the physical restoration of The Plough but also on Richardson’s ability to connect with the local community and understand what makes a Yorkshire pub truly special.
As the restoration progresses, viewers can expect to witness Richardson continue to roll up his sleeves, embrace the challenges, and learn from the Fadmoor locals. The future of The Plough, and the success of this ambitious rescue mission, will depend on the combined efforts of Richardson, the community, and a healthy dose of Yorkshire grit.
What challenges will Richardson and the team face as they move forward with the restoration? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow pub enthusiasts!
