Pub is named best in county
AFAMILY is toasting success after a father and son team saw their pub named the best in Greater Manchester.
The Petersgate Tap, in Stockport town centre, has won the title of cider pub of the year in a competition run by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
It was opened less than two years ago by Alan Gent and his son Chris, 68 and 33 and will now represent Greater Manchester in the national awards.
Alan’s wife Carol also played a role in the bar opening as he had the idea after she had previously complained there was nowhere for women to go drinking in Stockport.
She also does the business’s invoicing.
Alan, from Cheadle, said: “We wanted to create somewhere suitable for everybody to come, especially women – my wife was always saying there was nowhere for her to go and drink in town.
“Although we’ve won a couple of awards from the local branch, this is our first regional recognition. As well as ciders and perrys (pear cider) from traditional orchards, we’re keen to champion local producers.
“We’ve worked hard to gain a reputation and are proud to win this title.”
The bar, which opened in a former betting shop on St Petersgate, hosts acoustic music and poetry nights as well as being part of the Foodie Friday event every month.
It will also take part in next month’s Stockport Beer Week with a cider tasting event.
The Stockport and South Manchester branch of CAMRA nominated the Petersgate Tap for the award.
But it had to beat competition from another six shortlisted Greater Manchester pubs - including the Samuel Oldknow in Marple.
Alan and Chris were presented with their award on Sunday and will find out if they have won the national cider pub of the year title in October.
Mike Gilroy, from CAMRA, said: “This award recognises excellence in promoting and serving traditional drinks.
“Our judges were impressed with the welcoming environment, value for money and the quality of the cider on offer.
“Many mentioned the knowledge of bar staff and the encouragement to try unfamiliar products.”