Old White Bear is pub of year (From Craven Herald)

Old White Bear is pub of year

The Old White Bear, in Cross Hills, has been named Pub of the Year 2009 by members of the Keighley and Craven branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

Co-owner Neil Pickles and manager David Smith

The whitewashed building, constructed in 1735, has, at various times, been a hotel, brothel, council meeting chamber and dance hall and is one of the oldest buildings in the village.

Judges said: “A fine example of a popular, well-run community pub, it was formerly the home of Naylor’s Brewery until demand outstripped the space available and the brewery had to move to larger premises a short distance away about two years ago. However, the pub still sells Naylor’s beers at very competitive prices and in excellent condition.”

The pub — owned by Neil and Mark Pickles and managed by Dave Smith — is now a contender for the Yorkshire title.