Makeover of historic Horwich pub earns them prestigious award

The Bridge Inn, in Church Street, Horwich, has been awarded the Community Local Award by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

CAMRA say the pub was run down and in a poor condition before it was taken over by current owners Bridge Inn Horwich Ltd in November 2019.

Since then it has had a full refurbishment, with the original tiles now back on display, giving it a historic feel.

The function room on the first floor, out of use for many years, is now back in commission, with guest accommodation on the second floor, becoming a hub for community activities.

Bridge general manager David Manning said: “We are delighted to have been selected as the winners for this award. Following the extensive refurbishment of The Bridge, we feel that it has been restored to its former glory. The building has kept its historic 19th century features with the decor giving it a modern, free-flowing feel.

“FI have recently taken over The Bridge as General Manager, from the moment I set foot inside I instantly fell in love with it. This is a fantastic place and I cannot wait for it to be established once again in the heart of the community.”

Andrew Davison, chair of CAMRA’s Pub Design Award judging panel, added: “The Community Local Award is given in memory of Joe Goodwin, a former chair of CAMRA who was a champion of the street-corner local as a focus for the community.

“This year’s winner, the Bridge Inn, is perhaps on the large side to be described as a ‘street-corner local’, but an important community amenity nevertheless.”

A virtual awards event will take place at 7pm on August 26.