The rovers return...

CHEERS . . . Michael and Sandra are back at The Swan

A couple who sold a landmark pub to a brewery have returned . . . as landlord and landlady.

Michael Mooney and wife Sandra were hosts at The Swan in Dobcross village square for more than nine years.

When they sold up and went into semi-retirement, Michael returned part-time to his former career in civil engineering.

But now, to the delight of villagers, they have returned to their spiritual home, affectionately known as the Top House — one of the oldest pubs in Saddleworth.

Sandra is already currying favour with the regulars by producing a quality variety of former gourmet favourites, including chicken tikka massala from her own secret recipe.

Michael, who was born in Donegal, said: “We have had tremendous support from the locals.

“They all thronged-in the first night we opened to welcome us back.

“And things have been busy ever since. I am really pleased to be back behind the bar.

“It was a big wrench to leave the business when we sold the pub in the first place. Now we are looking to take the pub forward and rekindle many of our acquaintances. And we’ve had enthusiastic backing from two of our loyal team, Kate Holborn and Cath Platt, who have rejoined us in the pub.”

Said Sandra: “The response to our menu has been terrific.

“Dishes simply fly out of the kitchen — but curry is still the number one favourite with diners.”

The Mooney’s return ends months of uncertainty.

The pub closed when two business partners pulled out. More recently, there was a wrangle with a previous landlord over proposals involving music at the hostelry.

Councillor Mike Buckley, Oldham’s heritage champion, who lives opposite the pub, said: “It’s really nice to see them back.

“I’m confident they’ll make a real success of it again.”