Royal Oak joins pub elite

AN Oldham pub has been given pride of place in a new beer-lovers’ bible.

The Royal Oak in Union Street is Oldham’s only entry of the 270 pubs to feature in the Campaign for Real Ale’s “Britain’s Best Real Heritage Pubs” book.

Pubs have been selected for their interiors and features of historic significance.

The interior of the Royal Oak — built in 1823 by cotton dealer William Knott — was transformed in 1928 with a new lounge and hall. The bar was renovated in 1989 and a revolving door removed as it breached fire regulations.

Former policeman David Sweeney, landlord of the Royal Oak for six years, said he was pleased his pub was being honoured.

He said: “We get a lot of travellers from Manchester coming in just to look at the bar.”