Over the Christmas season, some councillors sponsored a competition called the 'Pub Prize' celebrating the best public houses and hostelries across Saddleworth, for their services to and support for the village communities that surround them.
The competition contained four categories recognising the best pubs in north and south Saddleworth, including those rural ones which face different challenges.
The top prize, however, was the Pub of the Year for 2021 - the overall winner.
The competition was organised by councillors Luke Lancaster and Max Woodvine, and was also sponsored by their Conservative colleagues.
Cllr Luke Lancaster with the Cross Keys’ landlady, Denise, and his colleagues Councillors Woodvine and Sheldon
The creator of the competition Cllr Max Woodvine said: “All our pubs in Saddleworth are brilliant but the people have chosen their favourites and, as such, the best. They are at the heart of our village communities offering services and support. They should be championed for their contributions and this competition has celebrated the best of pubs!”
Cllr Lancaster added: "Our hospitality sector has undoubtedly had a tough time, and so there can be no better time to recognise our great pubs and to encourage everyone to support them. With the universally positive response to this competition, I have every confidence that our pubs will get that support from the good people of Saddleworth."
A spokesman for the Old Original at Scouthead said: “This is tremendous news and a great morale booster, especially in these current uncertain times. Of course we are absolutely delighted to accept this award and know that the hard work of our Team has been appreciated. Thank you so much to Max and our thanks to Luke too.”
Councillors Lancaster, Woodvine and Byrne presenting Tommy Harrop with his trophy tankard along with the Old Original team
Accepting the award for winning both Pub of the Year and Best of Saddleworth North for 2021, Michael Wilkin and Stacey, the landlord and lady of the Spinners Arms in Springhead, said: “Wow! This is amazing, and we thank you so much for this award - it really means the world to us, especially after the last eighteen months. Here’s to 2022!”
Every pub in Saddleworth was automatically entered into the competition and the winners were…
Pub of the Year 2021 - The Spinners Arms, Springhead
North Saddleworth:
Best - The Spinners Arms, Springhead
Best Rural - The Old Original Inn, Scouthead
South Saddleworth:
Best - The White Hart Inn, Lydgate
Best Rural - The Cross Keys Inn, Uppermill
Charles Brierley, proprietor of the White Hart, being presented his prize by Councillors Woodvine, Lancaster and Sheldon
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