Mad O'Rourkes Pie Factory sending 'pies by post' all over the country

The famous Black Country boozer started sending out pies by order last month in a bid to keep the tills ticking over while its doors remain shut.

And the new venture has been a resounding success, with between 400 and 500 pies being sent out each week to destinations as far away as Aberdeen and Cornwall.

For £24 including delivery people can feast upon a mix and match of six of the bostin' pies, including the Wham Bam Thank You Lamb (minted lamb), Posh 'n' Becks (steak and stilton), Hen Pecked (chicken and mushroom), Andy Murray (chicken curry) and 100% Bullocks (steak).

There's also a chilli bean pie option for vegans.

Landlord Pete Towler, who has been at the pub in Hurst Lane, Tipton for 30 years, said a pal came up with the idea when the pandemic forced him to look for new ways to make money.

"Words can't express how terrible the lockdown has been for us," the 61-year-old said. "There's 30 odd staff been furloughed and we've really been forced to look at different ways to keep the tills ticking over.

"Fortunately this has really taken off and we are supplying all over the country. We're probably sending out 4-500 pies a week at the moment.

"We get a lot of tourists so quite a few of our orders come from people who have visited the pub in the past, and there's also been a lot of people ordering them as presents for others.

"It has been a natural addition to the business and we're certainly planning to keep it going when the pub reopens."

The Pie Factory is due to reopen to outdoor customers on April 12 when restrictions are eased.

An outdoor marquee is already fully booked, and Mr Towler says he is hoping to cater for more people outside if the weather holds up.

"We're really looking forward to it," he added. "We've lost so much money this last year we've got to try and rekindle it all."

The courier-delivered pie packages come with cooking and storage instructions. Visit madpiesonline.co.uk for more details.