There is undoubtably something rather special about the quintessential, English traditional pub. Sadly, they are becoming more of a rare species nowadays. However, one still remains in the multi-award winning village of Blacko.

As I alighted the bus, directly opposite the pub, there was the smell of coal fired smoke in the air. And the elevated, Pendle watering hole, situated in a row of former weavers' cottages, was looking resplendent in the late afternoon sunshine.

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I was given a warm welcome by the hosts, David and Sarah Rigby. The couple having run the Moorhouse's owned pub, for the last eighteen months. One of only three now, owned by the Burnley brewer.

David and Sarah had previously only lived a hundred yards away from the pub. David said: "We had been regulars at the Rising Sun. And Sarah had always wanted to run her own pub, after spending ten years as assistant manager, at the White Bear in nearby Barrowford. It was the ideal opportunity for us, when the tenancy became available."

It's has a relaxing and homely feel about it. A three roomed hostelry, that included an L-shaped main bar and lounge area. And two front rooms with splendid, far reaching views over Pendleside.

It has a most cosy and traditional pub feel. Scrubbed topped tables, ornate lighting, comfy fixed benched seating, light and warm coloured decor - and of course, open fires in each of the three rooms.

As you would expect, there was a fine range of Moorhouse's ales. Four in total - all permanent. And one rotating guest beer.

David offered me a selection of Premier (£2.80), Pride of Pendle, White Witch and Blond Witch(all £3.00). They are all first rate tipples. And Pride of Pendle, one of my favourites, was too tempting to resist. A classic English bitter. Caramel malt aroma and sweetness. Refreshing, lightly spiced and moderately hopped - a belting bitter - in exceptional condition.

I had noticed they still had a traditional pub menu. David said: "Yes, all meals are homemade and cooked by Sarah and her mother. Ingredients are locally sourced. We started a Sunday lunch a month ago - and last Sunday was a record breaker."

I popped my head into the tap room. An environment much loved by many pub patrons. The banter with the regulars and members of the pubs dart team ( who were sharpening their arrow skills), typified this friendly, welcoming, village pub.

The villagers of Blacko are lucky to have this gem of pub. Many villages have had part of their social fabric, shredded and lost forever. Thankfully, the Rising Sun still stands proud. Enhancing the spirit that binds this local community. A community pub that appears unlikely to become frayed around its edges.