Double award winner

Pub awards. The Swan in Dobcross. Landlords Tim Newbold and Michael Powis

IT’S celebratory doubles at a Saddleworth hostelry after it scooped not one but two national pub awards.

The Swan, in Dobcross — which only 12 months ago was another gloomy struggling pub statistic — has gone from calling time to popping the Champagne corks after being awarded Marston’s best newcomer and pub of the year accolades.

Landlords Tim Newbold and Michael Powis, themselves newcomers to the pub trade having coming from retail and forensic backgrounds, said they were both elated and stunned.

“We still can’t believe it,” said Tim, who took over the pub with Michael because he couldn’t bear to see his “local” going down the pan.

“We have a lot of passion in this job and love what we are doing and I think that must show.”

Michael added: “We were delighted to win the regional final but taking the national titles was a wonderful surprise.

“It’s testament to all the hard work we put in as a team to give customers a reason to try the pub and return to it.

“With recognition like this from Marston’s, the future looks very bright for the Swan Inn.”

One of reasons The Swan was plucked from among hundreds of competitors was the way it has managed to diversify from a village watering hole to a theatre and community hub.

For more information on forthcoming events and menus call 01457 873451 or visit www.theswandobcross.com.