Ryan Reynolds’ surprise takeover of Wrexham has had a surprising impact on the city

HOLLYWOOD star Ryan Reynolds has sparked a job boom in Wrexham after taking over the city’s football team.

Deadpool actor and co-owner Rob McElhenney is credited with creating a feel-good factor that has led to a surge in investment and employment opportunities.

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A property firm has paid £136million for 56 acres in an industrial estate after taking over the celebrity duo in February 2021.

Tim Knowles, founder and chief executive of FI Real Estate Management, which bought the land, said the two actors had caused a stir in the North Wales town.

He added: “There has never been a more exciting time to be in Wrexham than 2023.

“As our colleagues looked for development opportunities in the major cities in the south, we continued to focus on Wrexham.”

Reynolds, 46, and McElhenney, 45, were also thanked for record sales at a local boozer after buying the National League club, who were denied a historic shock in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday when a late equalizer by Championship team Sheffield United they committed back to 3:3.

The couple have drunk at The Turf, next to the club’s racecourse ground, on several occasions – and the pub features on their Disney+ series Welcome To Wrexham.

Lawn host Wayne Jones, 40, said the show has sent thirsty tourists flocking to his bar – with the last three months being his most frequented in 14 years.

He added: “Wrexham as an economy was going through a bit of a difficult time.

“But Rob and Ryan, who came almost two years ago, completely changed the city. It thrives.”

Wayne said his trade has practically doubled thanks to the documentary.

He said, “It has been seen by millions around the world.”

And there could be more good times ahead, with a last-16 draw against Spurs if they win their FA Cup replay.