In an unprecedented showcase of community spirit and impact, the finalists for the PubAid Community Pub Hero Awards have been unveiled. A diverse array of 24 pubs from across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales have been shortlisted across five categories, marking a record-breaking year for nominations.

This year, nearly a thousand pubs were put forward for their extraordinary contributions, with nominations pouring in from Members of Parliament, the general public and the pubs themselves. This surge in nominations underscores the pivotal impact pubs have on their communities.

Supported by longstanding partner Matthew Clark, the awards have introduced two new categories this year: Sport and Sustainability. These additions aim to spotlight pubs that are not only community hubs but also vital in supporting grass roots sports and advancing environmental sustainability.

Matthew Clark, affirming their continued sponsorship, highlighted the overwhelming response: “The response to this year’s awards has been outstanding. With over 900+ nominations, there’s no doubt that pubs still hold a special place in the heart and soul of our nations. We’re proud to sponsor these awards and help tell the unique stories of how our pubs support and are supported by their communities.”

Echoing this sentiment, Des O’Flanagan, co-founder of PubAid, remarked on the impact of pubs in their communities: “This year’s number of nominations speaks volumes about the integral role pubs play in their communities, far exceeding their conventional function as just somewhere to go for a drink. We created the awards to recognise the impact pubs have on communities and to thank the people behind the pubs that go above and beyond every day.”

Gabrielle Hutson, Brand Communications Manager, from Matthew Clark praised the judging panel’s diligent efforts: “Narrowing down 926 heartfelt nominations to just 24 finalists was no small feat. Each submission told a story of gratitude for the pubs that foster community spirit and make a difference every day.”

The selection of finalists was entrusted to a panel of experts, each bringing a wealth of experience and insights into the pub industry and community engagement. The panel included:

Rita King, Honorary Secretary of the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group and PubAid steering group member;

George Kyle, Head of ESG at C&C Group;

Paula Smith, Head of Marketing at the Licensed Trade Charity and PubAid steering group member;

Darryl Hinksman, Head of Business Development and MD for Westons Australia;

Andrew Buchanan, Operations Director Pubs and Brewing at Daniel Thwaites and member of the BBPA Future Pub group;

Molly Davis, Head of Communications for BII (British Institute of Innkeeping) and PubAid steering group member.

Rita King, reflecting on the significance of pubs in local economies and communities, stated: “With MPs representing constituencies that on average include two breweries and 80 pubs, the pub sector is a cornerstone of local economies, offering employment, training and skill development opportunities. Beyond economic impact, pubs play a crucial role in fostering community cohesion, supporting wellbeing, fundraising for local causes and offering solace to those in need. These awards, driven by nominations from those directly impacted by pubs’ efforts, are a testament to their invaluable contribution.”

The winners will be revealed at a prestigious ceremony at the Houses of Parliament on 5 March, sponsored by Matthew Clark. The event will welcome all finalists, industry leaders, and Members of Parliament, celebrating the impact pubs leave on their communities.

As PubAid, in association with Matthew Clark and the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group, ushers in a new chapter for the awards in 2024, the introduction of additional categories promises even wider recognition for the UK’s community pubs, champions of local spirit and sustainability.

A full list of shortlisted pubs are listed below:

Community Sport Hero:

The Sportsman, Boston, Lincolnshire

The New Inn Stratton, Swindon

The Garden House, Norwich

Community Support Hero

England:

The Clifton Arms – Blackburn

Admiral Rodney Inn – Swadlincote

The Rose and Crown – Ashbury, Swindon

The Bell and Bear, Emberton, Olney

Ireland:

Charlie’s Bar, Enniskillen

Scotland:

Greenhills Pub, Kilbride

The Waverley Inn, Edinburgh

The Red Lion Inn, Low Causeway, Dunfermline

Wales:

Yr Owain Glyndwr, Llanddona, Beaumaris

Community Fundraising Hero

England

The Railway Inn, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln

Black Bull Inn – East Halton, Immingham

The Half Moon Inn – Willingham by Stow, Gainsborough

Wales

The Sun Trevor – Llangollen

Scotland:

The Bank Bar, Dundee

McChuills, High Street, Glasgow

Tannochside Miners Club, Tannochside, Glasgow

Community Regular Hero:

Bridget and Paul Manley – Blue Ball Inn, Worrall, Sheffield

Roisin Therese – Dreadnought Pub, Edinburgh

Community Sustainability Hero

The George – Castleton, Hope Valley

The Three Moles – Selham, Petworth

The Bell Inn – Hedingham, Halstead

Are you lucky enough to have one of these pubs near where you live? Check out the Use Your Local Community Pub Hero Finder here.

ENDS

For more information and to speak to Des O’Flanagan please contact Emma Trimble at Just Nothing on emma@justnothing.co.uk