The George faced competition from over 1,000 entries nationwide in the PubAid Community Pub Hero Awards. The pub’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations. They have transformed a large allotment into a productive garden where they grow their own produce. Food scraps are composted and used in a wormery, contributing to a closed-loop system. The staff participate in gardening on a rotational basis, which also supports their mental health.
John Judson shared, “It’s unbelievable. To win one for sustainability, that’s brilliant but to win the second one, we’re over the moon. There’s no losers in the Community Pub Hero Awards, everyone here is so inspirational. We were talking to The Bell Inn, who were a finalist in our sustainability category, and we have learned things from them to try ourselves, and vice versa. It’s infectious when you start talking about something you’re so passionate about.”
John has also revived his hobby of glasswork, using a kiln to melt down glass bottles from the pub to create unique serving dishes, which have become a talking point among patrons.
The community widely appreciates the dedication to sustainability and the innovative practices that have been implemented.
The pub’s initiatives not only benefit the environment but also enhance the community spirit by involving staff and local residents in sustainable practices.
The George’s commitment to sustainability and community support has had a profound impact. The pub grows its own produce, uses solar power, and keeps bees.
They re-use and recycle materials and food, creating products from ingredients that are grown, swapped, or foraged. The team is actively researching ways to reduce water use and their carbon footprint. These efforts have not only earned them the Community Sustainability Hero award but also the Community Pub Hero Special Award for their holistic approach to sustainability and community well-being.
The George in Castleton stands out as a beacon of sustainability and community support. By winning two awards at the PubAid Community Pub Hero Awards 2024, the pub has demonstrated its dedication to environmental responsibility and the well-being of its staff and community.
John and Vicky Judson have successfully integrated sustainable practices into the core of their business, making The George a model for other pubs to follow.
