GLASSES OF special ale were raised in celebration as one of Saddleworth’s most historic pubs shared a unique distinction.
The centuries-old Cross Keys Inn in Uppermill marked its fortieth consecutive appearance in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide – one of only seven pubs in England to claim the accolade.
To commemorate the achievement, landlords Dave Devine and Craig Wilkes were presented with a certificate by Peter Alexander, chairman of the Rochdale, Oldham and Bury branch of CAMRA.
And J.W.Lees brewed foaming pints of a special Cross Keys bitter, with two free pints for the discerning drinkers at the event.
Mr Alexander praised the current and previous licensees for maintaining the inn’s high standard, saying: “It’s a fantastic achievement.”
To celebrate, the pub is offering 10 per cent off any cask ale for card-carrying CAMRA members.
Landlords Dave and Craig said they were proud to receive the award and thanked the previous landlords and all customers who have made the pub so successful.
Ken Holt, the CAMRA’s branch social secretary who lives near the Cross Keys, remembered early days when Harold Nield was landlord and when the pub was first included in the Guide.
He said: “In 1972, Harold also founded the Cross Keys Folk Club, which is still going strong with performances every Wednesday and Sunday in Buckley’s Kitchen.”
Pat Kay, who took the pub over with her husband Phil from Harold in 1978 and ran it for 21 years, was a guest at the award ceremony.
