'Proper beer' helps Dobcross club to another glittering prize

Just champion: CAMRA chairman Peter Alexander (left) presents Dobcross Band Club steward John Holden with the award. Picture courtesy of Michelle Riley.

A humble village band club has claimed a glittering accolade for the second consecutive year from the country’s real ale watchdog.

Dobcross Band and Social Club have been presented with the Campaign for Real Ale distinguished “Club of the Year” award.

The single storey premises on Platt Lane with its stunning setting, beat off strong representation from more than 100 clubs across Rochdale, Oldham and Bury to claim the prize.

The award is based on the quality of the beers, a welcoming atmosphere and professionalism of the staff. 

Presenting the award Peter Alexander, CAMRA branch chairman of the 10th largest branch in the UK, complimented  the club on its excellent range of beers and reserved special praise for the club’s steward, John Holden.

Mr Alexander said: “John is a real ale champion and has been for years. It’s proper beer and you can't sell it unless customers buy into it.

“It’s great to see real ale being promoted in a club environment.

"The advert of craft beers and growing in popularity too. But you can’t beat real ales.”  

Dobcross club president, Terry Lawless, said: “In a rapidly changing world, it’s important to embrace your heritage. 

“That’s what we at Dobcross Band Club try to do and what CAMRA have been doing for over 40 years. 

“It’s an honour to receive the Club of the Year award for the second year in a row and a pleasure to entertain the CAMRA branch members with a good, old fashioned crown green bowls match.”

Donald Booth, the CAMRA branch club representative, added: “The Dobcross club is a truly welcoming place and deserves the award.” 

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