9:40am Sunday 12th October 2008
By Wes Wright
PROUD landlords Gary and Beverley Parker are exhausted but exhilarated this week.
For their efforts at the Crown Hotel in Horwich have helped make the ninth Horwich Beer Festival another success and their huge Holts pub has made it into the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for the 10th year running.
To top it all they have won the pubs section of the Horwich in Bloom contest for the fourth time since 2000.
Gary said: ”We are so proud to have been in 10 times on the trot — every year since we took over.
“We are chuffed that we have made it into the Good Beer Guide 10 times — that’s a real achievement.
“The CAMRA people don’t tell you when they are coming, they just turn up and taste the beer, and send their report in. Then they let you know.
“And we have also won the Horwich in Bloom contest with hanging baskets and displays at the entrance.”
Gary estimates he spends around £500 every year on hanging baskets and a display at the entrance.
The couple, who have two children, have worked for Holts Brewery for 14 years, starting in clubs and pubs in Salford and Manchester, before being asked by the Crown in March, 1998.
Gary’s parents, John and Joan Parker, also ran pubs in Farnworth and Bolton.
The couple have enjoyed their years at the Crown, building up a loyal clientele and promoting games and food at the pub.
Food is served between 12 and 2pm, Monday to Saturday, and noon till 4pm on Sundays, with children welcome if dining.
The pub has a thriving games league, including quiz teams, dominoes, pool and darts.
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/trade_directory/