Club shortlisted for top UK honour

Dobcross Band Club Stewart John Holden (right) and colleague Cameron Mason

An unobtrusive club in the heart of a Saddleworth village has been named as one the best four member clubs in the CAMRA Club of the Year 2022 competition.

The accolade by the real ale watchdog is one of the most respected and well-known club awards in the UK.

Dobcross Band and Social Club, housed in a wooden building erected in 1967, is set out to provide facilities for members of its various sections, including bands, bowlers, snooker and darts players. 

It is one of four finalists vying to claim the National Club of the Year title for 2022, which will be announced in January, 2023.

The competition has been on hold over the last two years due to Covid-19 restrictions, and National Club of the Year Co-ordinator Phil Greggs said: “While each club offers something unique to visitors, they all share the foundation of what makes a great club – a warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent service and a fantastic range of beers.”

Reacting to the news that Dobcross Band and Social Club had reached the final, local CAMRA Branch Chairman Peter Alexander said: "I am absolutely delighted our good friends at the club are finalists in this independently judged competition.

“Our Clubs Officer Don Booth attended the presentation event in Leicester on our behalf and was able to cheer the announcement personally and congratulate the club officials present.  

“It is a tribute to the hard work of Steward John Holden and President Terry Lawless.

"I cannot overstate how difficult it is to get to this position and it reflects very well on this wonderful club, which is the current branch and Greater Manchester Club of the Year.

“The local CAMRA Branch is very proud indeed and our fingers are crossed for them when the result is announced in January.”

Band club president Mr Lawless added: “Everyone is delighted with the news and looking forward to the final in the new year.”

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.