Thwaites Brewery has revealed the winners of its 2022 Hospitality Awards and nine in Lancashire made the list.
The winners have scooped honours from several categories including best newcomer to the best place to find a pint.
Owner of The Black Dog in Oswaldtwistle, Ben Smalley, was named best newcomer after taking over in February.
A Thwaites spokesperson said: “Ben has got off to a great start, trading really well with great standards and lots of fantastic activity.”
Ben, 23, described the win as a “fantastic feeling”.
He said: “My team at The Dog have worked so hard and this award is for them, without them none of what we do would be possible.
“I’d also like to thank Thwaites for giving me the opportunity to take on The Black Dog and having faith in me and my team to make it a success.”
The White Bull in Oswaldtwistle won an award for the best food, where the average main above £15.
Co-owner Sean Forshaw, said: "The whole team are over the moon with this.
“What we have achieved within a small amount of time is unbelievable, as a team we have turned around the future of the pub to make it a premium destination place.
“Our aim is to continue the good work and build on our ethos of providing employment for disadvantaged young people 16-21."
Below is the full list of East Lancashire winners:
Best Newcomer: The Black Dog, Union Road, Oswaldtwistle
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Ben has got off to a great start, trading really well with great standards and lots of fantastic activity.”
Best pint: The Stork Hotel, Simonstone, Burnley
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Lines cleans routinely every week and has an immaculate cellar.”
Community Hero Award: The Swan Inn, St James’ Street, Burnley
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Incorporates all walks of life and has a fantastic community café in the function space on the first floor.”
Perfect principles: The Observatory, Old Bank Lane, Blackburn
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Carries out all the basics very well. Well thought out and organised operator.”
Sporting superstar: Havelock Inn, Havelock Street, Blackburn
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Simply the best place to watch sport. The atmosphere is amazing, geared by the AV set available.”
Best Business Builder: Brownhill Arms, Whalley New Road, Blackburn
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Steadily built-up trade by being nice, genuine friendly people who put a lot of effort and thought into everything they do.
“They have changed the pub dramatically; from the way it looks to the way it feels and also the level of activity."
Best Food (average main less than £15): The Foundry Tap, Livesey Branch Road, Feniscowles
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Great all-round offer. So many reasons to visit, well presented and has a lot of thought given to each and every dish.”
Best Food (average main above £15): The White Bull, New Lane, Oswaldtwistle
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Everything is executed really well. Fantastic food offer. Would love to have this pub on my doorstep. Great authentic food without being pretentious.”
Best Investment: The Fox & Hounds, Ewood
A Thwaites Brewery spokesperson said: “Such a turn around from what the pub started as.
“Breathed new life into a failing business. Laura, Bernie and Phil have done such a great job ensuring that the community engages with the project and uses the pub.”
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