It was a case of "killing two birds with one stone" this week. A beery trek in Pendle with my loyal Labrador, Lucy, to highlight a village pub and its involvement in a forthcoming beer and music festival.

The Trawden Arms, formerly the Rock Hotel, re-opened its doors in November 2014. However, many had thought that the last pub in the village may have been lost forever, when Star Inns and Pubs deemed it surplus to their requirements.

Thankfully, it was saved and purchased by local duo, Martyn and Sharon Whittaker - and it has been onwards and upwards ever since for this popular, independent village establishment.

To be honest it was not quite as I expected it to be for a village pub. Although, that was in no way a critical appraisal.

It has a very contemporary and food-led feel about it. It's a mainly open planned, brightly lit environment with a spacious bar/lounge area. An area boasting a split mosaic tile and wooden floor, ornate lighting and an impressive oak topped, L-shaped bar.

There are also a couple of tastefully furnished and decorated off-rooms, set aside for dining. One of these areas had been a former pool room - perhaps an indication of how a village pub is now having to meet the requirements of its present day clientele.

That said, it still retained some of its pubby feel. There was a warm welcome by the manager, Nadia and lots of friendly banter with the regulars and some thirsty walkers. Oh, and a canine friend for Lucy.

The pub had three rotating cask ales on offer at £3 a pint. I sampled two of them. With both the Reedley Hallows' Monkholme Premium and Prospect, Pioneer beers, being in exceptional condition.

Nadia said: "We always support local micro breweries. Bowland, Goose Eye (Keighley), Reedley Hallows and Prospect (Wigan) are some of our most popular beers. Mind you, it's going to be hectic for three days starting on Thursday (today). The pub will have 20 beers on. It forms part of the Trawden Beer and Music Festival.

Nadia added: "There will be another 60 beers on in the Community Centre. The festival also includes live bands and some fantastic food. The five pound wrist bands for the festival (£4 for CAMRA members) have been selling like hot cakes - it's going to be a cracking weekend."

It was so heartening to hear of the local community getting together to celebrate a three day festival. A festival where all profits will go to worthy local charities, including Pendleside Hospice, Rosemary Cancer Foundation, Petal and Derian House.

The organisers, The Rotary Club of Colne Noyna in association with the Trawden Arms and the Trawden Forest Community Centre, are hoping to raise £15,000. Sessions: Today 5pm-11pm; Friday 3pm-11pm; Saturday 2pm-11pm. Get down and them your support.