Oldham pubs nominated for £2,500 bar tab giveaway

Sacha Lord, Greater Manchester's Night Time Economy Adviser, is giving away a £2,500 bar tab to one lucky Oldham pub on Sunday, May 3. The entrepreneur launched a public nomination campaign on social media to highlight the severe pressures facing UK pubs, claiming 2,000 have closed in the past five years with 366 shutting in the last 12 months alone.

Residents have flooded Lord's social media posts with nominations for their favourite local venues. Billy's Bar in Failsworth has emerged as a popular choice, with locals praising its community focus including Monday coffee mornings with free refreshments for elderly residents. David Phillips described it as 'the best community pub in Failsworth' that 'brings the community back together again.

The Eight Bells in Failsworth has also received multiple nominations for being more than just a drinking spot. Stacey Louise Booth highlighted how staff 'don't just pull pints' but create a 'warm, welcoming, and safe' atmosphere where people feel noticed and cared for. Reuben Redshaw called it 'a safe space and a real family' where strangers become friends.

Other Oldham pubs in the running include the Railway in Chadderton, praised for its consistent quality and friendly atmosphere, along with the Dog and Partridge in Woodhouses, JÜCE Bar in Royton, and the Hope and Anchor. Lord has run similar giveaways before at venues like the Briton's Protection in Manchester city centre and the Thirsty Korean restaurant in Chorlton, with nominations closing 2-4 days before the May 3 event.