OUR latest choice for the weekly pub of the week may set some tails wagging as we visit a popular venue in Oswaldtwistle.

Benjamin Smalley has chatted to us about the main reasons for the success of the Black Dog.

Name of the pub

The Black Dog

Address of the pub:

384 Union Road

Landlord/landlady name:

Benjamin Kieran Smalley

How long have you been the landlord for?

Four months

Bar staff and their names:

Alisha, Joanna, Kara, Crystal, Emily, Imogen, Chelsie, Luke And Pilar

Give us some history about the pub

The pub is owned by Thwaites brewery based in Mellor Brook, it dates back to 1806 but is probably older in 2018 it underwent refurbishment which has brought it to the look it is at now. What makes us different to other pubs in the area is our customers. We have all age ranges and all walks of life.. and they all come together for the live music and great atmosphere. And dogs are welcome at the Black Dog.

Is food served?

No

Is there a beer garden

Yes we have two, one at the front and one at the rear

Do you have any darts/snooker/pool teams

Not yet but are looking to introduce them

Most popular drink served is:

It’s either Bierre Morretti or Thwaites Gold

Most memorable moment at the pub

There has been so many in the short time I’ve been here. I’d say, it would be opening weekend when the pub was full of locals returning.

Do you have an entertainment line-up?

We have live music on every Friday, Saturday and Sunday we also have Sky Sports

Have you faced any challenges within the industry

I have been brought up in the industry with my mum running a pub since I was eight. There are so many challenges that we face daily, but that’s part of the job.

The best thing about running a pub is

The best thing I’d say is seeing everyone over the weekend. Seeing them enjoying the live music and sports. And speaking to our regulars that have frequented the pub for years. 

The worst thing about running a pub is..

I wouldn’t say I dislike many things about running a pub, but if I was to pick one is the admin and paperwork

The perfect hangover cure is...

The best way to get over a hangover is to have another pint