Oldham pub pair land second top CAMRA crown for Fox and Pine

The Fox and Pine in Greaves Street, which has only been fully open since Covid restrictions were relaxed, is CAMRA’s Rochdale, Oldham and Bury Branch Pub of the Year.

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And the pub takes over the winner's mantle from its sister Oldham Beer Company pub, the Cob and Coal at Tommyfield Market.

Chris Riley runs the Fox and Pine and his wife, Michelle, the Cob and Coal.

Chris Riley behind the bar at the Fox and Pine

Speaking about the competition, branch chairman, Peter Alexander said: “This year, as usual, the awards were very keenly contested and the coveted award for Branch Pub of the Year has once again gone to an Oldham pub, the Fox and Pine.  

"This is even more remarkable, as the pub, run by Chris Riley has only been fully open since Covid restrictions were relaxed.

“The pub has a fantastic selection of real ales and ciders- a must of course - and, among other criteria considered by members of the branch who voted, were service, welcome, inclusiveness comfort and community feeling.”

Chris and Michelle Riley celebrating the Cob and Coal's win (Image: Cob & Coal)

The pub takes over the award from The Cob and Coal, which is also the current Greater Manchester Pub of the Year and will now go on to the next Greater Manchester competition later this year.

Mr Alexander said: “This is a fantastic result for one of our newest pubs.

"The Fox and Pine is a worthy winner and added greatly to the Oldham pub scene setting a very high standard for others to follow. 

“CAMRA regards the Pub of the Year awards as something to be fiercely competed and hopefully it will inspire others to follow.

"Looking at the branch awards overall, we are fortunate to have had three brilliant pubs in first place and encourage everyone to go to the pubs and see for themselves.”

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He added: “We also look forward to the Fox and Pine pitting itself against the best of Greater Manchester pubs. I am sure it will do very well indeed.”

Mr Riley said: “To win last year with our first Oldham Beer Company venture The Cob and Coal and to follow that feat with the Fox and Pine is just fantastic for the town.”

His wife Michelle said: “Thanks to all our utterly fabulous staff, the folks who believed in Oldham and supported us.”

In CAMRA’s individual borough awards, the Flying Horse won the Rochdale title and the Trackside sealed it for Bury.

Completing the double, the Fox and Pine is also the Oldham champion.