A Joseph Holt pub celebrated for its warm atmosphere and award winning cask ales has just netted a top award from The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA)
The Crown in Horwich, Greater Manchester has been given a Golden CAMRA Award – issued to celebrate 50 years of the organisation’s campaigns.
The award marks another achievement for The Crown which has featured in the Good Beer Guide for 22 consecutive years. A feat which landlord, Gary Parker, 64 , says is down in no small part to the excellent way the pub keeps its beer on form.
“People come from far and wide to drink our cask ale,” says Gary “Of course they love the atmosphere and warm welcome they get at The Crown, But they are always assured of a good pint. It`s like I always say, look after the cellar and the cellar will look after you. Once the beer is vented and tapped, you just have to leave it alone.”
As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, CAMRA is recognising people, groups of people or businesses that have made a significant contribution to CAMRA’s aims.
The original Crown was built in 1786 and is believed to have been a staging post on the Turnpike Road. It was rebuilt in 1886 with the arrival of the railway works.
Run by Gary and his wife, Bev, for 23 years, it has become for many the heart of the Horwich community.
“So many social groups meet here,” explains Gary, whose two daughters Louise and Chloe also work at The Crown. “ In fact we`ve just started a chess club, On St George`s Day, Morris dancers congregate here from all over the country. They dance , enjoy pie and peas and wash it all down with our best bitter, which I set up with a pump in the yard. But equally, lots of customers feel comfortable enough just to come in by themselves, if they fancy a chat and have a drink. There`s always someone to talk to. Bev and I have worked hard to make sure everyone feels at home here.”
The pub has a traditional feel with an open plan lounge and dining area, as well as a pretty beer garden decorated with flower arrangements.
Drinkers have a choice of eight cask ales from Holts and independent breweries, as well as internationally-recognised lagers, bottled beers, ciders, wine and spirits.
Adds Gary: “We`re so proud that we`ve won the CAMRA Golden Award. We never take what we do for granted or rest on our laurels. But it’s also thanks to all our staff and wonderful customers who help make The Crown what it is . And may we continue to be the beating heart of Horwich and surrounding communities for many years to come. “
CAMRA’s Awards Director Gary Timmins said: “I am delighted to be honouring the Crown with a CAMRA Golden Award. 2021 is our anniversary year, and we want to take this opportunity to celebrate the successes of great British locals as well as CAMRA’s achievements – we wouldn’t have got far without their support! This anniversary comes on the heels of an incredibly difficult time for the industry after a year of lockdowns and restrictions. I hope the team behind the Crown and their locals will take this award as appreciation for all the hard work involved in running the pub, over the decades and especially now. Winners have been chosen for their successes in standing the test of time; for being convivial, characterful and community-focused, and of course for consistently pouring great pints. I applaud the Crown for their dedication, for being community stalwarts and campaigning heroes.”