Band club’s remarkable triple honour

Photo: Ken Bennett

Don with Dobcross band and social club steward John Holden.

A humble village club has claimed an ultimate Campaign for Real Ale accolade by gaining entry to its coveted Beer Guide for 2020.

And it was a triple celebration for Dobcross Band and Social Club because they claimed a silver award in the recent Greater Manchester regional finals for the National Club of the Year competition and their devoted stewart John Holden received a 30 year long service award.

CAMRA’s Don Booth making the presentations at a celebration in the club,  said: “The Dobcross entry into the Good Beer Guide makes it  the first club in the history of Rochdale  Oldham and Bury branch to achieve this honour.

“The club offers a warm welcome to to all and a fine range of beers.

“And in Manchester regional finals for the National Club of the Year  competition, the Dobcross  was  only beaten by Flixton Conservative Club, the  present national COTY.”

In praise of club stewart John, he added: “His hard work is now starting to attract outside attention and a stream of awards.

“John’s  award is in recognition of 30 years service and commitment to serving real ale in perfect condition to club members and guests.”

Responding, John said:”I’m extremely proud to have had the pleasure of running the club for the last 35 years and was delighted to be honoured by CAMRA long service award.”

Band club president Terry Lawless, was especially pleased the club  had made it into the Good Beer Guide.

He commented: “This is just reward, not only for the dedication of John and his hard working staff, but also to the efforts of the club committee and the remarkable way they have turned around the club’s fortunes over the last few years.”

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