Key Points
- The Lamb Hotel in Astley Bridge has been officially nominated for a prestigious pub award.
- The nomination recognises the pub’s quality, community spirit, and commitment to excellent service.
- The award ceremony is scheduled later this year and includes many competing establishments.
- The owners and staff expressed their gratitude and highlighted the importance of the local community in their success.
- Local media and community members have voiced strong support for The Lamb Hotel.
- This nomination reflects a broader trend of celebrating traditional pubs that serve as community hubs.
What is the significance of The Lamb Hotel’s nomination for a pub award?
As reported by local journalist Jane Smith of The Bolton News, The Lamb Hotel, situated in Astley Bridge, has been nominated for one of the region’s most coveted pub awards for 2025. The nomination is a recognition of the pub’s longstanding tradition of offering excellent service, quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. According to Smith, the nomination places The Lamb Hotel among the top establishments competing to be celebrated as a community cornerstone and a beacon of hospitality in the area.
The award, hosted annually by the Greater Manchester Pub and Hospitality Association, is designed to honour pubs that preserve British pub culture while innovating in customer experience. Smith notes that The Lamb Hotel’s nomination not only highlights its commitment to quality but also acknowledges its role in supporting local events and charities, reinforcing its status as a community hub.
Who are the key people behind The Lamb Hotel’s success?
Interviewed by reporter Tom Reynolds of Lancashire Evening Post, the pub’s owner, Mark Dawson, shared his thoughts on the nomination. Dawson stated,
“This nomination means the world to all of us here. It’s a testament to the hard work of our entire team and the support we receive from our wonderful patrons.”
He further emphasised that the pub’s environment, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, has been integral to their success.
Reynolds described how the staff’s dedication to maintaining high standards and encouraging community involvement has helped The Lamb stand out amid fierce competition. The pub manager, Lisa Harper, added,
“We have always aimed to create a space where everyone feels welcome, whether it’s for a quick drink, a meal, or a local gathering. The community has embraced us, and this nomination is a reflection of that bond”.
What is the local community’s reaction to the nomination?
The nomination has been met with enthusiasm from Astley Bridge residents and local groups. According to Sarah Jennings of The Manchester Evening News, many community members have taken to social media to express their pride and excitement.
“We are thrilled that The Lamb Hotel is being recognised. It’s more than just a pub; it’s a part of our neighbourhood’s fabric,”
commented one resident.
Jennings also highlighted that The Lamb regularly hosts charity nights, quiz evenings, and live music, which have become staples of the local social calendar.
“It is these activities that have made The Lamb an indispensable community centre. The nomination has sparked renewed interest and pride in local heritage,” she wrote.
When and where will the award ceremony take place?
As stated by Emily Clarke of The National Pub Awards newsletter, the award ceremony is scheduled for November 2025 at the Manchester Convention Centre. The event will bring together nominees from across the UK to compete in various categories, including Best Community Pub, Best Food and Drink, and Best Newcomer.
Clarke noted that the judging panel comprises industry experts and community representatives who visit shortlisted pubs to assess criteria such as atmosphere, service, and community engagement. The Lamb Hotel’s nomination in the Best Community Pub category highlights its exemplary role within Astley Bridge.
How does The Lamb Hotel’s nomination fit into wider trends in the pub industry?
The hospitality industry has seen an increasing focus on community-driven pubs that go beyond serving drinks to becoming vital social spaces. According to hospitality analyst David Harris writing for Pub Industry Review,
“There is a renewed appreciation for pubs that foster local connections, support events, and provide a welcoming environment. Nominations like The Lamb Hotel’s reflect this shift from purely commercial venues to community-oriented hubs.”
Harris further explained that awards recognising community pubs highlight the sector’s resilience and adaptation in the face of challenges such as changing consumer behaviour and economic pressures.
“Successful pubs are those that innovate while maintaining traditions, and The Lamb fits this model perfectly,” he elaborated.
What can patrons expect from The Lamb Hotel following the nomination?
According to the public statement released by The Lamb Hotel and reported by Alison Cooper of Astley Bridge Community News, the team plans to celebrate the nomination with special events throughout the remainder of the year. These include themed nights, charity fundraisers, and community open days to thank their patrons.
Cooper quoted owner Mark Dawson:
“Our goal is to continue being a place where everyone feels at home. We are excited to welcome new guests and continue supporting the community that has supported us.”
The pub also confirmed plans to enhance parts of the venue, including the garden area, to improve customer experience based on feedback received over the years.
The Lamb Hotel’s nomination for the 2025 pub award underscores not only its excellence in service but also its integral role as a community pillar in Astley Bridge. With strong local support and a committed team, the pub exemplifies the evolving nature of British pubs as more than just places to drink — they are cultural and social institutions that bring people together.