Leeds United associated historic venue becomes headquarters for campaign to honour legend — YEP 19/9/25
By Graham Smyth
One of Leeds' most historic pubs has become the headquarters
for a campaign to properly honour a Leeds United legend.
The Old Peacock on Elland Road has been the watering hole of
choice for Whites fans for generations thanks to its location directly across
the road from the football stadium. This week it was announced that the pub had
been temporarily renamed in honour of Patrick Bamford and the association with
Leeds United is at the heart of the owners' decision to get behind the WILKO92
cause.
A supporter-led campaign, WILKO92 aims to raise funds in
order to build a statue of Howard Wilkinson who took Leeds into the top flight
and then two years later won it. Wilkinson is also credited with a major role
in the development of homegrown talent through the Thorp Arch academy and
training base. He remains the last English manager to win the English top
flight title.
Jamie Lawson, Ossett Brewery and The Old Peacock owner, said: "The Old Peacock has always been more than just a pub - it's part of the fabric of Leeds United’s history and the community that surrounds Elland Road. We’re proud to make it the headquarters of Wilko92 and to raise a glass to Howard Wilkinson, a manager who brought unforgettable memories to this city. Just as generations of fans have gathered here before every match, we hope they’ll now gather to celebrate and support the campaign to honour one of Leeds United’s true greats and the team he led to glory, winning the league trophy in the 91/92 season.”
A statement from the WILKO92 campaigners revealed that the
pub will serve a tribute ale with a donation made to the statue funds from each
pint. It read: "Founded in 1826, The Old Peacock has been stitched into
the match day ritual of Leeds fans for generations. From its early days as a
meeting place for miners and mill workers, to becoming the unofficial home of
Leeds United supporters when the club was founded in 1919, the pub has long
stood as a symbol of community, passion, and footballing tradition. On match
days, its beer garden and bars remain a vibrant hub for Whites fans, echoing
decades of chants, celebrations and commiserations.
"Now, the historic venue will channel that spirit into
WILKO92 — a project dedicated to ensuring Wilkinson’s achievements are
permanently recognised alongside fellow Leeds legends such as Don Revie and
Billy Bremner. The Wilko92 Tribute Ale will be available at the Old Peacock and
Ossett pubs across Yorkshire, giving Leeds fans the chance to toast a true
Elland Road icon in the knowledge that a donation will be made to the Howard
Wilkinson Statue from every can purchased and every pint pulled."
