An Oldham pub is celebrating another win for 'Team Bear' as its pool player fights off fierce competition in a national tournament.

The Bear on the Hill pub on Huddersfield Road hit headlines last year after its players, Kevin Hodgkinson and Darren Smithies, battled against other regional pool pros for a chance to take home the national trophy.

While Kevin was knocked out during the quarterfinal of the inaugural Proper Pubs tournament, Darren defeated his opponents and was ultimately crowned the winner.

The Oldham Times: Chloe went to Blackpool to represent 'Team Bear' in the quarter-final heatChloe went to Blackpool to represent 'Team Bear' in the quarter-final heat (Image: Bear on the Hill)

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox by signing up to The Oldham Times’ morning and evening newsletters as well as our breaking news alerts 

Now, with the pub keen to keep up its reputation as a birthplace for pool champs, the alehouse is also celebrating its female contender, Chloe Smithies, for going head-to-head in the quarter-finals of the Ultimate Pool tournament in Blackpool.

The 2024 Ultimate Challenger Series, held at The Grand Hotel in Blackpool, even saw the 24-year-old conquer a former world champion to get to the Ultimate Pool Women's Pro Series.

The Oldham Times: The inspirational woman took up pool when she was just nine years oldThe inspirational woman took up pool when she was just nine years old (Image: Chloe Smithies/Bear on the Hill)

Though she didn't quite make it to the finals this time, the pub's landlord, Tony Beswick, said he and the pub are "extremely proud" of her.

Tony explained: "Chloe plays for both Bear on the Hill teams, our Oldham League on Tuesdays and Shaw League on Wednesdays, but has recently turned professional.

"She played on the biggest stage for Ultimate Pool.

The Oldham Times: Chloe represents Oldham in two team leagues Chloe represents Oldham in two team leagues (Image: Bear on the Hill)

"She comes from a pool family, with her dad, Andy, and brother, Darren, having played for very high levels.

"She started playing when she was nine - my daughter is nine and says Chloe is now her best friend and wants to be just like Chloe when she's older."

He added: "Everyone here at the Bear are extremely proud of you, Chloe." 

If you have a story, I cover all things Oldham from food reviews and local business news to music and events, pubs, education, crime, property, health, community concerns and much more. Please email me at Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk or send me a message on Twitter @Livbridge with your news.