‘This has motivated us more than ever’
The Beau Geste in Ashton-under-Lyne has won an top pub award(Image: Stonegate)
Two pubs in Greater Manchester have won big at a popular awards ceremony – including one venue which just reopened five months ago and another known for its screening of pig racing.
The Craft Union Operator Awards are held each year to recognise the owners who ‘go above and beyond’ in making their pubs a vital part of their local community.
A few days ago, it was revealed that Nicole Webb and Dave Parrott, who run The King William IV in Newton, Hyde, had been named ‘Best Centre of Excellence Operators’ at the national awards.
Their award recognised the ‘outstanding work’ they did to train and mentor new pub operators in the country, with the pair saying they were ‘so proud to represent Hyde on a national stage’.
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The Vine, on Washway Road in Sale, was named Best Sports Pub(Image: Stonegate)
An additional two pubs have now also been recognised with awards. John Moxon, operator of the Beau Geste in Ashton-under-Lyne, took home the ‘Best Newcomer’ prize.
The pub, on Katherine Street, only reopened in June following a major six-figure revamp. The homely pub features a modern decor, with a ‘sun trap’ beer garden. Built in 1967, the pub is a popular spot for the nearby
John, who took over the established local venue last year, was praised by award judges for taking the Beau Geste to a new level of popularity within the community since his arrival. As well as fundraising for charities, his strong knowledge of the local area has helped retain loyal customers and bring in new guests.
“We’re over the moon to receive this award,” John said. “The Beau Geste has always been our passion, and to see our hard work recognised at this level is amazing.
“We’re proud to serve our local community, and it’s so rewarding to know our hard work over the last year has made a huge difference for our customers, team, and community.”
Tom Slattery, operator of The Vine in Sale, at the Craft Union awards
The Vine, on Washway Road in Sale, was also praised at the ceremony with the award for Best Sports Pub. Led by operator Tom Slattery, the Trafford venue has been regarded as a place to watch top sports games, including City and United matches.
On match days, the pub goes all out with kid’s entertainment, games, themed lighting, sweepstakes and regular live entertainment. Outside of football, F1, darts, cricket, rugby, horse racing, local leagues and even pig racing all feature on the calendar.
I’m absolutely delighted to win this award and it’s brilliant that Craft Union has recognised how popular our sports offering has been over the past 12 months,” Tom said.
“This has motivated us more than ever to keep pushing to make our sport-watching experience better than ever, with some exciting plans in the pipeline.”
Frazer Grimbleby, Managing Director of Craft Union, added: “John and Tom truly represent what these awards are all about. John has brought fresh energy and community spirit to The Beau Geste, showing what can be achieved with vision and determination.
“Tom has made The Vine a true home of sport, creating an inclusive and exciting environment that keeps guests coming back week after week. Both are outstanding operators and great ambassadors for Craft Union.”
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