On Saturday 18th November 2023 an enthusiastic busload of West Cumbria CAMRA branch members travelled to the Greyhound pub in Bothel to present landlords Rachael Scott and Andrew Wood with a Pub of the Season award, pictured above with branch chairman Stephen Walker who is holding the framed certificate. They took over the tenancy of the pub in February of this year, prior to which both of them worked as Police officers.

Andrew had lived in the village for some time, but neither of them had any previous experience at running a pub. They made big changes to the pub and were enthusiastic about looking after and selling handpulled ales.

They encouraged local clubs to meet in the pub and put on quiz and music nights.

It was apparent when the branch members poured into the pub just how enthusiastic and friendly all the staff were. Andrew was working in the kitchen and the food we had was tip top.

Unfortunately, the couple have decided to bale out and to return to their former profession, but we are told that the new tenants are equally enthusiastic.

As this is now the last pub in the village, it is of paramount importance that it keeps trading.

(Article & photo provided by Len Wainwright)