THE GOOD NEWS: Shepherd Neame installs defibrillators at Kent & Essex pubs

However, we also want to show the positive news going on within the industry and here is where we will be highlighting good news by regularly updating this story.

NOVEMBER

Shepherd Neame installs six defibrillators in pubs across Kent and Essex

Shepherd Neame has installed new lifesaving defibrillators at six of its pubs across Kent and Essex, including the The Bellhouse in Leigh-on-Sea.

The brewer joined forces with charity London Hearts, which procures and distributes defibrillators across the UK, to source Government match funding for the equipment.

Last year, Shepherd Neame CEO Jonathan Neame donated £1,000 to the Jude Harvey Foundation, which promotes heart screening and awareness to help prevent young sudden cardiac deaths (SCDs).

As part of the initiative, new defibrillators have also been installed at the following Shepherd Neame sites in Kent: The Manor Farm Barn in Southfleet, near Gravesend; The Belle Vue Tavern in Pegwell Bay; The Granville in Canterbury; The Cock Inn in Boughton Monchelsea near Maidstone, and The Plough Inn in Lewson Street near Faversham. They have all been added to a national network map, DefibFinder.

A total of 23 defibrillators are already in place at Shepherd Neame pubs and hotels across Kent, Surrey and Sussex, and one is also available in reception at its Faversham Brewery.

Jonathan Neame said: “We take pride in ensuring that our pubs are at the heart of their communities, and this investment means that they can play an even greater role, by ensuring that life-saving assistance is available to all when it matters most.”

London Hearts’ COO Jo Lovell added: “The aim of London Hearts Charity is to increase the number of available AEDs (automated external defibrillators) throughout the UK. We are extremely pleased to have worked together with Shepherd Neame in providing this life-saving equipment to more local communities. We feel it is vital that AEDs are readily available to everyone to protect them from Cardiac Arrest which tragically can happen to a person of any age at any time!”

Chef & Brewer partners with Guide Dogs on ‘Puppy Hour’ initiative

Guide Dogs has partnered with Greene King’s Chef & Brewer brand to launch Puppy Hours across pubs in the Midlands, North West and North East this winter, helping the charity recruit more volunteer Puppy Raisers.

The scheme will see meet-up sessions take place at nine Chef & Brewer pubs throughout November, providing a relaxed setting for those interested in volunteering to speak with existing Puppy Raisers and learn more about the role. Attendees can bring their own dogs, enjoy a complimentary hot drink, and meet guide dog puppies in training.

The initiative is part of Guide Dogs’ national drive to increase volunteer numbers, as around 125 guide dog puppies are placed with volunteers each month across the UK. With demand rising, the charity said more Puppy Raisers are urgently needed to help prepare young dogs for future guide work.

Guide Dogs’ puppy raising operations lead Haley Andrews said: “Our Puppy Raisers dedicate more than a year to every pup they have, taking them from a tiny eight-week-old right through to a confident adolescent ready to train as a guide dog.

A big part of this transformation is having real-life experiences, and we’re grateful to Chef & Brewer for allowing our volunteers a new dedicated space to get together and bring their guide dog puppies, especially at this time of year when public places are busy and distractions are heightened.”

The Puppy Hour sessions will also provide an opportunity for existing volunteers to socialise and help their pups practise remaining calm in bustling environments - an essential skill for future guide dogs.

Chef & Brewer’s head of integrated marketing William Botterill added: “We were thrilled to be approached by Guide Dogs UK to support their latest campaign. Our pubs proudly welcome dogs, and we’re pleased to provide a space where people can learn more about the vital role of Puppy Raisers. We encourage anyone interested to visit one of the events this month.”

Sessions will run at 11am on 6, 13 and 20 November at participating pubs including the Griffin in Altrincham, Ferry Inn in Nottingham, and Wellington Hotel in Northumberland.

OCTOBER

Fuller’s Admiralty raises £1.4k for naval charity with Trafalgar Day celebrations

Fuller’s flagship pub The Admiralty on Trafalgar Square marked the 220th anniversary of Nelson’s victory with its second annual Trafalgar Night Dinner, raising £1,400 for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.

Guests enjoyed a four-course meal alongside traditional ceremonies including the parading of the baron of beef, Ships of the Line (chocolate replicas of HMS Victory), toasts and performances from the Kings Pond Shantymen and Royal Marines Association Ensembles.

A new highlight this year was a chocolate ship competition for Fuller’s chef apprentices, mentored by pastry lecturer Steve James at Capital City College. Nelly Bennett of The Swan Hotel, Staines, was crowned the winner for her salted caramel popcorn truffles.

The event was supported by Pusser’s Rum, Graham’s Port, and Sambrook’s Brewery, which collaborated with the pub team to create an exclusive beer, Immortal Toast, now on tap at The Admiralty.

General manager Helen Wilson said: “This year’s Trafalgar Day event was another huge success. Our proximity to Nelson’s Column makes us the most fitting place to celebrate – under the gaze of the great man himself.”

Young’s raises record £285k for charity in 194th anniversary year

Young’s has celebrated its 194th birthday with a record-breaking fundraising year, raising £285k for children’s charity Wooden Spoon, surpassing its target of £200k.

The total takes the pub group’s combined fundraising to almost half a million in two years, following £205k raised in its first year of partnership with the charity.

Funds will support five organisations: the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, Maddy’s Mark, School of Hard Knocks, Pass the Plate, and Dogs for Good, addressing causes from youth mental health to food poverty and assistance dogs.

Every pub across Young’s 260-strong estate took part in Young’s Day on 18 September, each challenged to raise £194 through local initiatives such as bake sales, tombolas, fun days, and sports challenges. Highlights included a 14.7-mile barrel walk between Bath Brew House and Bristol Brew House.

Looking ahead, the company has set a £300k fundraising target for the coming year and will expand its charity partnerships to include Farms for City Children and The Clink. Activity will continue throughout 2026, including fundraising linked to the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Simon Dodd, CEO at Young’s Brewery, said: “To have raised £285k is a huge achievement and it reflects the passion and creativity of our pub teams and the generosity of our customers. From bake sales and barrel walks to community fun days, it’s been heartening to see pubs at the heart of their neighbourhoods, pulling people together and raising money that will genuinely change lives.”

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, added: “The staggering monies they raise truly make a huge impact for the charitable causes we grant to, making a lasting and life-changing difference to the children and young people benefiting.”

Longbow Venues turns desserts into donations for local and national charities

Longbow Venues’ £1 dessert donation initiative sees every pudding sold across its Peak District venues contribute directly to local and national charities.

Each venue supports a different organisation close to its community, including Edale Mountain Rescue, Blythe House Hospice, me&dee, CPRE Peak District, and the Ruth Strauss Foundation. The scheme has helped fund vital rescue work, palliative care, and family support services.

Longbow managing director Rob Hattersley said: “Hospitality has always been about more than great food and service – it’s about people. This initiative is a simple but powerful way for our teams and guests to give back to the communities we live and work in.”

Alongside the dessert donations, the team also walked 30km across the Peak District in September, raising more than £6,000 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

Proper Pubs and Carling donate over £15,000 to foodbanks

Proper Pubs, the community wet-led division of Admiral Taverns, has raised more than £15,000 for local foodbanks across the UK in partnership with Carling.

The funds were generated through Proper Pubs’ ‘Heroes of Hunger’ campaign, which saw 5p from every pint of Carling sold in August donated to foodbanks nationwide. Pubs also hosted fundraising events to collect food, donating enough to feed 1,300 people for a week.

Proper Pubs managing director Nathan Wall said: “Supporting vital community causes is central to everything we do. This partnership shows pubs remain the cornerstone of communities and can make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Rachel Bailey, marketing controller at Molson Coors, added: “Carling has always been about bringing people together, and this partnership highlights the role pubs play in uniting communities for good.”

Proper Pubs continues to champion community initiatives year-round, with recent campaigns donating Easter eggs, Advent calendars and installing hundreds of life-saving defibrillators across the UK.

Stonegate raises over £820k to support those affected by MND

Stonegate Group has ended its three-year partnership with the MND Association and MND Scotland, having raised £825k to support those affected by motor neurone disease (MND).

Stonegate colleagues have climbed mountains, cycled over 2,000 miles, created a purpose-brewed charity beer, ran marathons and hosted pub quizzes, all to raise money and awareness for MND.

The MND Association’s chief executive Tanya Curry said: “Since 2022, Stonegate has raised more than £800,000 for the MND Association and MND Scotland, taking part in extraordinary events including the Tour de Stonegate which saw staff cycling more than 2,000 miles and by climbing Mount Snowdon.

“The strength of this remarkable partnership has enabled the MND Association to develop the support and information we offer to people living with MND, their families and carers, while also funding vital research which gives us the hope we need for the future.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to the team at Stonegate for their generosity, their dedication and their tremendous support.”

Stonegate CEO David McDowall added: “I couldn’t be prouder of what our teams, guests, and communities have achieved. From collection tins on bars to marathons and mountain climbs, everyone’s creativity and determination to raise vital funds for MND has been incredible.

“This partnership shows what we can do when we come together with purpose – and I’m so grateful to everyone who’s played a part.”

Greene King celebrates franchisees with awards ceremony

Greene King Pub Partners, the leased, tenanted and franchise arm of Greene King, has celebrated its franchisees with an awards ceremony.

Held at Leicester Racecourse as part of Greene King’s ‘Franchise Festival’, the awards recognised the achievements of operators with a Hive or Nest partnership.

Winners included Samantha Lane, franchisee of the Palmer Taven in Reading, who won the Nest Franchisee of the Year award, and Jez Wright, who won the Hive Franchisee of the Year award for his pub, the Westbury Tavern in Clayton.

A morning conference also took place, with presenters including British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) CEO Steven Alton and Chris Welham of the Licensed Trade Charity.

The sessions highlighted the resilience of publicans and the vital support their organisations provide. There was also a panel session for franchisees to share their experiences, learnings and best practices with one another.

Additionally, the event raised £4,722 for Macmillan Cancer Support through a raffle and silent auction.

Franchise operations director for Greene King Pub Partners Penny Baldwin said: “These awards are about recognising the very best of our franchise partners – the operators who not only run great pubs but also create brilliant experiences for their communities.”

SEPTEMBER

Red Engine founders go on tour to raise £250k for charity

Red Engine – the operator of Flight Club and Electric Shuffle sites in the UK – is aiming to raise £250,000 for its Yellow Ball Foundation via a UK tour and world record attempt.

The journey also marks the 10th anniversary of the group’s first Flight Club opening in Shoreditch, east London.

Led by founders Steve Moore and Paul Barham, the tour will begin on Wednesday 1 October.

They will visit every UK city home to a Flight Club or Electric Shuffle venue in a vintage fire engine, named Martha, to celebrate with local communities and raise money for the 21 causes Yellow Ball supports, including Macmillan Cancer Support, The Fire Fighters Charity and The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.

The charity tour will kick off with a two-day pop-up at a disused fire station in Clerkenwell, central London, complete with live DJs, street food, games and prizes, before concluding on Wednesday 22 October at its venue in Shoreditch.

Fundraising for the Yellow Ball Foundation will come from food and drink sales, donations for taking part in the world record attempt and charity tournament ticket sales.

Red Engine CEO and founder Steve Moore said: “Celebrating a decade of Flight Club is huge and we can’t think of a better way to mark it than by hitting the road for a great cause.

“Our Flight Club journey began with a world record attempt, so it feels only right to kick off this charity tour with another one.”

Stonegate boosts LGBTQ+ charity bank by £80k

The UK biggest pubco Stonegate Group has raised £80,000 for Stonewall Housing – a UK charity for LGBTQ+ people who are homeless or living in unsafe environments.

Since the partnership began in January 2022, Stonegate has supported Stonewall Housing through campaigns and venue-led fundraising, as well as sales of Polari and Rainbow Pilsner beers in its LGBTQ+ venues, with a portion of proceeds going directly to the charity.

Pride Month 2025 played a key role in the fundraising efforts, with almost £12,000 raised through Pride drinks activations alone.

This included £10,000 from Heineken sales, close to £1,400 from Rainbow Pilsner and Portobello Polari, with 10p from every pint donated to Stonewall Housing all year, plus £560 from Be At One’s Pride-themed ‘Matcha Matcha Man’ cocktail, which donated 50p from each sale in June.

During the year so far, sales of Rainbow Pilsner and Portobello Polari have generated almost £8,500 towards the total.

The money raised has helped Stonewall Housing support nearly 4,000 LGBTQ+ people a year facing or experiencing homelessness and kept the charity’s national housing advice line running, strengthening its casework services and enabling faster responses to urgent referrals.

Stonewall Housing director of development Claire Linacre Hilton said: “Stonegate’s support has had a powerful and tangible impact. Its fundraising and national visibility have enabled us to reach thousands of LGBTQ+ people facing or experiencing homelessness, and to keep vital services running at a time of unprecedented demand.”

Stonegate Group LGBTQ+ venues area manager Liam Martyn added: “Our teams and guests get behind the fundraising with real passion, and the difference it makes is clear. We’re excited to keep building on this success and to continue raising awareness and funds for such an important cause.”

Nicholson’s and St Austell unite to support homelessness charity

Nicholson’s Pubs and St Austell Brewery have joined forces to raise money for Social Bite, a charity dedicated to helping people break the cycle of homelessness in the UK.

Throughout September, 5p from every pint of Nicholson’s Pale Ale, which is brewed by St Austell Brewery and sold exclusively in all 82 Nicholson’s pubs nationwide, will be donated to Social Bite.

Part of the Pints with Purpose campaign, the initiative, which coincides with Cask Ale Week, will raise money to help fund the charity’s mission to provide homes, jobs, food, and support to people throughout the UK.

Social Bite director of fundraising and partnerships Sara Rees said: “[This] support comes at a crucial time for people experiencing homelessness. We hope the Pints with Purpose initiative not only helps to raise vital finds but also creates conversations and drives awareness around homelessness.”

Nicholson’s, part of Mitchells & Butlers, has supported Social Bite since 2020. Each year, the charity distributes more than 140,000 items of food and drink, supports people into employment and delivers safe accommodation.

“Our pubs have long been places of community and connection, so it’s fitting that every pint of Nicholson’s Pale Ale poured this September will help make a real difference to those affected by homelessness”, Nicholson’s operations director Will Prideaux added.

In addition, St Austell Brewery chief operations officer Andrew Turner said the initiative highlighted the unique role cask ale plays in British pub culture.

AUGUST

Proper Pubs and Carling team up to donate to local food banks

Proper Pubs, the award-winning community wet-led operator division of Admiral Taverns, has partnered with Carling to donate 5p of every pint of Carling, brewed by Molson Coors, sold across its estate throughout August to foodbanks across the UK.

Timed to coincide with National Foodbank Day on Saturday 6 September, pubs hosted fundraising events to collect food. Enough food was donated to feed 1,300 people for a week.

The initiative is part of Proper Pubs’ ‘Heroes of Hunger’ campaign, which launched in September 2024.

Proper Pubs managing director Mark Brooke said: “Supporting community initiatives is at the heart of everything we do, especially in light of the current challenges affecting people across the UK right now.”

Carling brand director at Molson Coors Lee Willett added: “Pubs are a powerful force for good in their communities, and this campaign is a fantastic example of that spirit in action.”

Loungers raises £217,000 for charity

Loungers, the café bar and restaurant business, has raised a total of £217,000 for charity.

Raied as part of the brand’s ‘LoungeAid’ initiative, the funds were split between 246 different charities and good causes.

Some 250 venues took part in fundraising activities such as hikes, cycles, swims, sky dives, quizzes, cake sales, auctions, and head shaves.

Top fundraisers were the team at Circo Lounge Bournemouth, who raised £4,700 for the University Hospital Dorset Foundation.

Meanwhile, general manager at the Francisco Lounge in Haywards Heath, Joel Alves, raised £750 for the Chailey Heritage Foundation by completing a five-day 365-mile solo hike from Modelo Lounge in Hove to Martino Lounge in Morpeth.

Loungers head of community John English said: “I love the passion, innovation and hard work that has gone into the many challenges and events our team have put on, and we are grateful for the generosity of our customers who have helped us raise so much for so many different causes.

“LoungeAid is at the heart of our ambition for every Lounge to be a force for good in its community - by bringing families and friends together, providing job opportunities, and supporting local charities and good causes.”

JULY

Greene King raises over £1.68m for Macmillan

Greene King has raised more than £1.68m for Macmillan’s Support Line, fulfilling its pledge to support the cancer lifeline during the first half of 2025.

The funds were raised through charity activity at 1,600 Greene King pubs, hotels and restaurants as well as its support centres, breweries and distribution centres.

They will enable the trained professionals working on Macmillan’s Support Line to care for more than 14,000 people by providing information and specialist clinical advice, as well as helping people identify any unclaimed welfare benefits they could be entitled to.

Grene King CEO Nick Mackenzie said, “Receiving a cancer diagnosis, whether personally or for a loved one, is often an overwhelming and uncertain experience, and the support, care and advice provided by the team on the Macmillan Support Line is a lifeline for so many during this time.”

Greene King has been a long-term charity partner of Macmillan since 2012 and has raised more than £23m for the charity to date.

Macmillan chief executive Gemma Peters added: “I have witnessed first-hand the unwavering enthusiasm of Greene King colleagues and customers as they continue to do whatever it takes to support Macmillan – from taking on Mighty Hikes and abseiling down the grandstand at York Race Day, to hosting Coffee Mornings and pub quiz nights.

“It is only with the steadfast support of valued partners like Greene King that Macmillan can continue to be right there for people living with cancer.”

Stonegate Group raises £70,000 for MND Association

Stonegate Group has raised £70,000 for the MND Association through a recent charity day.

The money raised marked a significant milestone for the partnership between Stonegate Group and the MND Association seeing the funds raised since the beginning of the partnership reach over £700,000.

This latest event, which took place at The Grove Hotel in Watford, saw suppliers and Stonegate staff come together to help raise funds for research, care and support for those suffering with the disease.

On the day, teams of four took on the renowned golf course at The Grove, with suppliers and Stonegate staff donating to sponsor holes. The competition also saw them take on local professional, Dan Allison, in a one-shot shootout in exchange for a donation to the Association.

A charity raffle, with prizes donated by suppliers such as hospitality Premier League tickets and VIP concert tickets were also up for grabs and helped boost the money raised.

Nick Marks, group commercial director at Stonegate Group, said: “We’re delighted to have raised a huge £70,000 at our recent charity day at The Grove, we truly appreciate everyone’s generosity in donating to such a worthwhile cause, with the money raised set to help so many people across the nation.

“I’d also like to extend a massive thank you to all our suppliers and colleagues that attended our charity day, they were more than willing to donate raffle prizes and put their hands in their pockets to help those living with MND.”

Punch clears 48kg of litter in community clean up

Team members from across Punch Pubs & Co.’s estate came together to remove 48kg of litter from grass and woodland areas near its head office in Burton-on-Trent last month.

Punch’s campaign partners Molson Coors and Biffa, local families and friends were also welcomed to participate in the event, which took place on Monday 30 June.

Following the clean-up, the waste was processed through Biffa’s commodity markets.

Another litter pick has been scheduled for this September at Cannock Chase as part of Punch’s ongoing environmental commitments.

Punch strategic corporate affairs & ESG lead Jon Dale said: “Our commitment to protecting people, the planet, and our pubs is gaining traction, and I’m incredibly proud once again to see so many Punch people, suppliers, and volunteers help us drive meaningful change.

“We will continue to make strides in this ‘Doing Well, by Doing Good’ space, knowing that we are leading the way in protecting the environment and creating a sustainable world for future generations.”

Greene King hosts biggest annual fundraiser to date

Suffolk-based pub operator and brewer held its fourth annual Macmillan Gala Dinner last month.

The event, which was attended by some 570 guests, raised more than £300,000 for long-term charity partner Macmillan Cancer Support.

Held at the Celtic Manor Resort in Chepstow, the fundraiser brought together more than 130 supplier partners from across the hospitality industry, with sponsors including Budweiser Brewing Group, Asahi UK, Coca Cola European Partners and Pernod Ricard.

TV presenter Mark Durden Smith led the evening’s proceedings, which included a heartfelt speech from Tricia Timms, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist on Macmillan’s Support Line.

In addition, the event featured various activities for guests to enjoy, including golf and a cooking master class with Michelin starred chef Adam Handing MBE.

The pubco has been a partner of Macmillan Cancer Support since 2012 and has raised in excess of £23m for the charity to date.

Greene King CEO Nick Mackenzie said: “This brilliant event truly showcased the incredible impact we can achieve when the hospitality industry comes together.

“With the support and generosity of our sponsors and guests, we’re delighted that we’ve raised a significant amount for Macmillan, a charity that touches the lives of so many. My thanks go out to everyone involved for their hard work in making this possible.”

JUNE

Craft Union raises £20k for charity

Teams from across Craft Union Pub Company came together earlier this month for a cross-country walking challenge, walking 60 miles and raising more than £20,000 for charities Pub is The Hub and Help for Heroes.

In celebration of Craft Union’s 10th anniversary, around 150 people from teams across the business simultaneously hit the streets, parks and pub stops in five regions, walking between 10 and 16.5 miles each.

Craft Union pub operators, support teams, suppliers, and charity representatives from Pub is The Hub and Help For Heroes set off on different routes across Newcastle, Chesterfield, Liverpool, London, and Swansea, filling the day with community spirit, pub pit stops, and plenty of fun along the way.

Managing director Frazer Grimbleby said: “Craft Union is all about bringing communities together, and there’s no better example of that than the Crafty Stomp.

“It’s been incredible to see so many of our teams come together across the country – not only celebrating our 10th anniversary, but doing it in a way that helps others."

Following its launch last year, when teams raised funds for for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Crafty Stomp will now become a tradition in the Craft Union calendar – with plans already brewing for 2026.

Pub is The Hub chief executive John Longden OBE added: “Thanks so much to the whole Craft Union team and all the pubs that took part in this fundraising walk.

“These funds will help us support many more pubs and publicans to diversify in providing vital local services or activities, which can also help to tackle the major societal issue of loneliness in their local areas.”

Marston’s provides getaways for families facing cancer

Wolverhampton-based pub company Marston’s has united with charity Something To Look Forward To to offer respite to those affected by cancer and their families.

The long-term partnership will see free hotel stays and meals out at specially selected Marston’s pubs across the country distributed to those in need, alongside an annual financial donation to the family-founded charity.

The first experience, which is now available to apply for on the charity’s website, is an all-inclusive overnight stay and meal at the Green Lodge Hotel in Hoylake, Merseyside, which is part of Marston’s Signature collection.

Marston’s people director Liam Powell said: “Whether through personal experience or someone close to us, cancer touches so many lives and is a journey many of us know all too well.

“We are delighted to support the brilliant team [at Something Too Look Forward To] in making a real difference in the lives of people experiencing the effects of cancer and its treatment.”

Based in Cambridge, ‘Something To Look Forward To’ was set up by Fiona Coldron and her husband Andy in 2015 following her own breast cancer diagnosis.

After Fiona passed away in February 2021, her daughter Francesca took over the award-winning charity, which over the past decade has provided more than £2m worth of gifts and experiences to more than 40,000 people affected by cancer.

Francesca Abery added: “Although cancer is a physical illness, its impact is far-reaching. From the emotional weight of a diagnosis or treatment to the financial pressures that often come with it, the journey can be overwhelming.

“By accessing our service and benefiting from free gifts and experiences, those affected by cancer can take a moment for themselves to pause, rest, and focus on their wellbeing, while creating lasting, positive memories when they’re needed most.”

Hospitality rides raises £400k for charity

Fundraising cycle event Hospitality Rides has raised more than £400,000 for industry charities.

The charity initiative, which was rebranded form Pedalling for Pubs in 2024, saw 29 industry leaders tackle a 400km sponsored cycle across Taiwan.

It raised crucial funds for hospitality organisations the Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) and Only A Pavement Away (OAPA), which both support anyone working within the trade facing difficulties.

Building on this year’s success, organisers have announced that the next fundraising challenge will take place in Spring 2026, with cyclists set to embark on an epic journey across Cuba.

Hospitality Ride’s sister fundraiser, Pedalling 2 Pubs, recently saw industry leaders cycle 220km across the peak district, raising more than £100k for the LTC and OAPA.

The two events have exceeded £1.5m in fundraising since their inception.

Bear Inns hosts inaugural ‘pub-to-pub’ half marathon

North-west-based Bear Inns has raised £15,000 after hosting a ‘pub-to-pub’ half marathon between its two pubs, the Swan in Tarporley, and the Lion in Malpas.

The event – a 13.8-mile walk/run with 480 metres elevation – saw 50 enthusiastic participants take on the challenging cross-country route in warm weather, raising funds and awareness for North West Cancer Research and The Licensed Trade Charity.

Both causes are close to the hearts of the Bear Inns team and its patrons.

“The idea behind the ‘pub to pub’ was simple: a tough but enjoyable challenge that brings people together and gives back,” said Woody Barlow, owner of Bear Inns. “We’re absolutely thrilled with the turnout, amount raised and the incredible community spirit shown by everyone who took part.”

The event was sponsored by Barlows (electrical contractors from Malpas) and reflected Bear Inns’ ethos of ‘pubs of joy’, championing great food, drink, and hospitality at both its Tarporley and Malpas venues.

Participants gathered at the Swan in the morning and made their way through the picturesque Cheshire countryside, eventually crossing the finish line at the Lion, where they were met with a barbecue, refreshments, applause and a well-earned rest.

The half marathon also marked the launch of the Great Pub Walk, a new offering from Bear Inns that gives walkers the chance to experience the stunning Sandstone Trail while enjoying overnight stays at both pubs.

As part of the package, guests can have their bags transported between the two pubs, allowing them to explore the trail at their own pace without the hassle of carrying luggage.

The half marathon is part of a wider fundraising initiative, including a charity auction and fine dining evening, all in support of the two chosen charities, selected in memory of the late Si Lees-Jones who, along with his wife, own the Swan and the Lion inns.

“We chose North West Cancer Research and The Licensed Trade Charity because both make a real difference in people’s lives, whether that’s through medical research or direct support for hospitality professionals in crisis,” added Barlow.

“This event was a fun and meaningful way to honour Si Lees-Jones’ memory and continue our fundraising mission.”

Plans are already in motion to make the Pub to Pub an annual event, growing its reach and impact in future years.

MAY

Star hosts charity quiz

Star Pubs and quiz provider Warp Point are launching the Great Big Pub Quiz on Thursday 12 June, in support of Marmalade Trust’s Loneliness Awareness Week.

This is a nationwide campaign focused on reducing the stigma surrounding loneliness and celebrating connection.

By hosting or participating in the quiz, pubs, local businesses, and community groups can help raise awareness and funds for Marmalade Trust. To take part, all pubs need is a screen, a mobile phone and a room full of quizzers.

A donation from each player’s entry fee will automatically be made on their behalf to Marmalade Trust, which will fund their work on loneliness.

Heineken and Star Pubs have partnered with Marmalade Trust since 2023 raising over £360,000 through colleagues, customers and licensees.

Fundraising for Pedalling to Pubs exceeds £50k

The fundraising total for Pedalling To Pubs 2025 has exceeded £50k ahead of the annual event.

Riders will set off across the Lake District next month for thee 220km sponsored bike ride, which each year raises vital funds for leading hospitality charities the LTC (Licensed Trade Charity) and Only A Pavement Away.

This year’s challenge will see 60 hospitality professionals ride from Penrith to Carlisle and back between 5 – 7 June.

Currently in its third year, Pedalling To Pubs 2025 is striving to exceed last year’s fundraising achievement of more than £85,000.

British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) CEO and lead rider Steve Alton said: “Pedalling To Pubs has quickly become a standout event in the hospitality calendar, and it’s fantastic to see it return bigger and better than ever.

“Along with the rest of the riders, I’ve been training hard to take on the 220km Lake District route – and with more than £50,000 already raised, this year’s challenge promises to be our most impactful yet.

“We are grateful to the organisers and partners whose passion for our industry makes this all possible – and of course to the great British pubs we’ll be visiting along the way."

Alongside its sister event, Hospitality Rides, Pedalling To Pubs has raised more than £1m for the LTC and Only A Pavement Away since their creation.

LTC CEO Chris Welham said: “It’s fantastic to see Pedalling To Pubs going from strength to strength – not only bringing people from across the hospitality sector together, but also raising vital funds and awareness for the LTC and Only A Pavement Away.

“The sector continues to face significant challenges this year, and campaigns like this allow us to continue providing health and wellbeing support, practical advice and financial assistance.”

OAPA CEO and founder Greg Mangham added: “Huge thanks to the riders, organisers, and everyone who’s donated – you’re helping us to build brighter futures.”

APRIL

Joseph Holt raises over £8k for charity

A group of Joseph Holt pubs in the north west have raised thousands of pounds in just six weeks in memory of one of the little girls killed in the Southport attack in 2024.

Elsie Dot Stancombe was one of three children that lost their lives at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class last July after an attacker walked into the holiday club.

Following the tragedy, her bereft parents, Jenni and David Stancombe, set up Elsie’s Story, a charitable trust established in the spirit of their daughter’s “positivity, love for others and energy of life”.

The trust makes grants available to support young people and their families in Elsie’s name through community projects, medical care and general support.

Recently, 16 Joseph Holt pubs came together for a six-week project to raise £8,387 for the cause.

Area manager Mike Gauder said: “We are very much a family business, and our customers have huge hearts and really value the need to help and support each other.

“We were all heart broken by the devastating events in Southport and are so happy that through this short fundraising project we have been able to contribute to this vital cause and to little Elsie’s legacy.”

The idea for the fundraiser came from operator at the Hayfield Pub in Ormskirk, Jess Lucas, who had already been raising money for Elsie’s Story by selling cards made by ten-year-old Amelia Mawdesley, whose mum, Jess Mawdesley, is a friend of Jenni.

Inspired by the success of the card sale, the licensee decided to call on 15 other Joseph Holt pubs to work together to raise funds.

In a personal letter to Lucas, Elsie’s mum said the support from all involved in the Joseph Holt fundraiser meant “the world” to the family.

Lucas said raising so much money in such a short time was testimony to the generosity of pub customers who had been so touched by the terrible event.

She added: “Elsie’s Story is such an important cause, and we have been so grateful that in such a short time our customers have been so generous and so help continue Elsie`s legacy.”

March

Greene King provides respite breaks for unpaid carers

Greene King has partnered with the charity, Carefree to provide 169 unpaid carers with free ‘short breaks’ in its hotels over the last year.

This initiative is part of Greene King’s broader strategy to support both customers and the communities it operates in across the UK.

Carefree collaborates with hotels nationwide to offer breaks for unpaid carers by utilizing donated rooms from their excess capacity.

This allows unpaid carers, who deliver 80% of home care in the UK, to access a short break with a companion, at a time and place that suits them.

Since the partnership began in 2023, Greene King has provided a total of 248 respite breaks. The initiative is also set to expand further as the company grows its hotel offerings in 2025.

Greene King Venture Hotels managing director Vincent Madden, said: “We are aware of the essential work that unpaid carers do around the clock.

“The partnership with Carefree allows us to give back to those within our communities who give so much to support their loved ones, and it is our privilege to offer them a well-deserved break.”

The partnership with Carefree is part of “Greene King for Good”, the company’s environment, social and governance programme, which aims to have a positive, lasting impact for millions of people in communities across the country.

Carefree head of breaks delivery Miruna Harpa added: “Thanks to the generosity and support of our hospitality partners, including Greene King, more unpaid carers than ever before have been able to take a well-deserved break in 2024. Many carers go years without a full night’s sleep, always putting others first.

“These short breaks give them a rare chance to rest, recharge, and focus on their own well-being—helping them return to their vital role feeling refreshed.”

Joseph Holt raises £710,266 for the Christie Hospital

Joseph Holt brewery has raised £710,266 for The Christie hospital, beating the £500,000 fundraising goal set for its 175th anniversary.

The family-run brewery, which operates 127 pubs across the north west, celebrated its milestone with a charity appeal for the leading cancer treatment centre.

Funds raised will directly benefit the Christie’s new Advanced Scanning and Imaging Centre in Manchester. The new center will house four CT scanners, including a 4D CT scanner, the first of its kind in the UK.

The increased capacity will allow the hospital to scan up to 45,000 patients annually, double the current figure of 24,000. A new Joseph Holt reception area will also be created.

Joseph Holt CEO Richard Kershaw expressed his pride in the achievement: “The Christie hospital and Holt Radium Institute has and always will hold a special place in our hearts and the hearts of our staff and customers.

“We wanted to mark our 175th anniversary with a really ambitious fundraising target of £500,000 as we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate this event than by giving back to the community in this way.”

“What we couldn’t have anticipated was not only hitting our goal but vastly exceeding our target. This was only achieved because of the immense dedication and generosity of our staff and our customers.”

He continued: “Our pubs really are in the hearts of the community where they are located – and it was that sense of community which enabled them to raise so much money for the cause”.

Other fundraising activities put on throughout the year have included events organised by both head office and individual pubs, such as a football tournament, a beer festival at the Brewery, marathons, sponsored walks, raffles and even sky dives.

The Joseph Holt brewery is the hospital’s longest running charity partner with a partnership of more than a century,

Christie Charity corporate development manager Anna McIntosh expressed her gratitude: “We are incredibly grateful to Holts’ for its unwavering support of The Christie Charity.

“The money raised through its fantastic two-year appeal will have a profound impact on cancer care, funding the development of our new Advanced Scanning and Imaging Centre.”

FEBRUARY

Village pub raises more than £6k for Macmillan Cancer Support

The Beeswing Pub in East Cowton, West Yorkshire, which is part of Punch Pubs & Co’s leased and tenanted estate, has raised more than £6k for Macmillan Cancer Support by hosting a 15-hour darts event.

Taking place on Saturday 1 March, the fundraiser was sponsored by Sky Sports and money was raised using JustGiving.

Pro darts player Simon ‘The Wizard’ Whitlock, his son Mason Whitlock, and Robert Thornton, joined in the action, mixing with locals and the community for the event.

Meanwhile, professional referee Nile Gott kept the energy high, introduced players, and tallied the all-important scores.

The event culminated in an all-singing, all-dancing knockout tournament, with competitors and spectators donning creative costumes, including nuns, a ladybird, and even a hotdog.

Licensee Beth Robinson, renowned for her passion for community and fundraising, was thrilled with the day’s success: “It was the best day in the pub I’ve ever had!

“I don’t think we could ever recreate what we did; it was simply amazing. Once again, I’ve been blown away by the support of our community.

“I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved or more grateful to everyone who helped organise, including Punch Pubs, Sky Sports and Macmillan, everyone who took part and everyone that visited the pub on the day.”

While the final fundraising total hasn’t yet been confirmed, it surpassed the Macmillan’s previous record for a darts event, exceeding £6,000.

Only A Pavement Away places 660 people find work since its founding

Only A Pavement Away (OAPA), a charity focused on supporting people facing homelessness through employment in hospitality, has announced its six-year impact, placing more than 660 people into work since it began.

The charity supports individuals in rebuilding their lives by securing employment in the hospitality sector.

Since 2018, OAPA has made a significant impact on the UK economy, with the placement of 661 members into employment, which was valued at £25.1m.

This valuation mainly accounts for reduced Government support, as well as increased financial independence and greater household expenditure.

The charity has also provided more than £58,000 in financial support to help both candidates and members start and sustain their employment.

In addition to direct job placements, OAPA has supported in excess of 2,850 people through their learning and development programmes and workshops.

These initiatives prepare candidates and members alike for employment and helps to continue with supporting overall development.

OAPA founder & CEO Greg Mangham said: “We are so proud of what Only A Pavement Away has achieved since its inception in 2018, and I’m incredibly optimistic about the future.

“Our charity is built on a simple yet powerful concept — equipping people with new skills and life-changing opportunities while addressing a critical recruitment need in the hospitality industry. Everyone deserves a chance.

“Over the past six years, we’ve seen first-hand this process works for our candidates, employer partners and the wider economy, and the numbers speak for themselves.

Craft Union Pub Company raises £1m for local community causes

Craft Union Pub Company raised more than £1m in the past year for 650 local causes through community-focused fundraising initiatives.

The company’s ‘Make it a Million’ campaign united pub operators, guests, operations and support teams alike.

Since February 2024, Craft Union pubs have held almost 2,000 fundraising events, which averages to five events per day.

These events included raffles, sponsored events, charity auctions and themed parties.

The funds supported various causes including food banks, charities, local grassroots causes and wellbeing support. Stonegate’s support team contributed up to £96,813 to the effort, with Craft Union pubs raising £972,660.

Standout fundraising examples included:

•The Garden House, in Norwich which raised over £33,000 for local causes, including The Salvation Army Norwich and Only a Pavement Away. The site donated £1,000 worth of food and essentials every week.

•The Lord Protector in Huntingdon, which raised £23,750 repairing and donating bikes and hosting a sponsored parachute jump.

•The Star, in Roffey, donated £12,500 to St Catherines Hospice by completing a sponsored abseil.

•Corner Pin in Barnsley, donated a total of £17,140 to The Epilepsy Society through a series of events including a skydive.

In December last year, Craft Union launched its ‘Winter Warmth’ campaign, donating more than 4,000 items of warm clothing and essential supplies to local charities.

Meanwhile in September 2024, teams participated in the ‘Craft Union Stomp,’ which covered more than 50 miles in five locations and raised £20,000 for the Motor Neurone disease association.

A celebration was held at Union Bank in Wakefield to commemorate the achievement, where a donation of clothes and food was made to WF3 Kindness.

Craft Union, managing director Frazer Grimbleby said: “Reaching £1m through our ‘Make it a Million’ campaign is a remarkable achievement.

“It’s a testament to the union of community spirit and the dedication of our people to help others... And we’re not stopping here – watch this space for our next community initiative.!”

As Craft Union celebrates its 10th anniversary, the company is in the process of planning its next community initiative, with a focus on continuing to support communities throughout the UK.

Fullers surpasses £1m fundraising milestone for special Olympics Great Britain

Fuller, Smith & Turner (Fuller’s) has raised more than £1m for its charity partner, Special Olympics Great Britain (GB), since 2018.

The funds will help support Special Olympics GB in changing the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Fuller’s has introduced various fundraising initiatives, some of which included donating 50p from every child’s meal purchased at its venues and utilizing their pennies fundraising platform for customer donations.

Since 2022, Fuller’s has also organised an annual sponsored walk, titled the Fuller’s Bridge Walk, where staff members, Special Olympics GB athletes, volunteers, and staff walked more than 20 miles beside the River Thames, raising almost £30,000.

Fuller’s additionally hosted a charity unified football tournament, in which staff and suppliers alike compete in six-a-side matches, with each team involving an athlete with an intellectual disability. The 2024 tournament successfully generated £21,000.

The company has also partnered with LVS Hassocks and Special Olympics GB to curate a guide designed for recruiting neurodiverse individuals and those with intellectual disabilities in a bid to promote a more inclusive workplace.

Special Olympics GB chief executive Laura Baxter MBE said: “Our partnership with Fuller’s has really gone from strength to strength since 2018, and we are proud of how our work is helping to drive societal change for those with intellectual disabilities. The annual football tournaments and bridge walks have shown how easy it is to drive inclusive practice”.

Fuller’s chief executive, Simon Emeny stated: “This has been a fantastic partnership from the beginning.

“We’ve loved working with Special Olympics and I’m so proud of all our team members for helping us hit this million-pound milestone... One of the proudest elements of this partnership is the work we have undertaken to improve recruitment of team members with intellectual disabilities.

“It has made a real difference and moved our relationship from pure fundraising to one that has delivered long term sustainable benefits to all parties”.

Emeny also thanked the team members and customers who supported the partnership.

Greene King raises ‘record-breaking- sum for Macmillan

Greene King Pub Partners have raised a record-breaking sum for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The pub company has raised a record amount and has pledged it’s support for the cancer support line.

The business announced a significant record-breaking fundraising total of £3.9m for Macmillan Cancer Support in 2024, which is the highest recorded yearly total to date.

This marks the culmination of a 12-year long partnership with the charity, throughout which Greene King has raised a total of £20m.

The company’s fundraising efforts have also included a wide variety of initiatives, ranging from sponsored head shaves to pub quizzes and bike rides.

The £3.9m sum raised has the potential to fund over 100,000 hours of support from Macmillan nurses or pay for over 50 nurses during an entire whole year.

This funding is crucial support for people in need fighting cancer.

In addition to the recent fundraising efforts, Greene King has also announced that the first six months of fundraising throughout 2025 will be put towards aiding Macmillan’s support line, a service that offers confidential support by telephone, webchat or email, offering emotional support, and practical guidance on any issues relating to cancer.

Greene King CEO Nick Mackenzie emphasised his pride in the company’s achievements.

He stated: “This wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our team members and generosity of our customers, whose continued passion for this incredible charity has resulted in yet another record-breaking year of fundraising.”

Macmillan Cancer Support chief executive Gemma Peters also shared her thoughts on the achievement. She said: “The team at Greene King is serious about fundraising and 2024 was no different for them, as they raised an awesome £3.9m.

“We have been proud partners for over 12 years now and I’m always impressed by how committed and creative the team is, doing everything they can to raise more money than the year before.

“Last year they did everything from sponsored head shaves to bike rides- including pub quizzes of course! - and we’re hugely grateful.

“A massive thanks to all Greene King team members and customers who were involved, as this money will make a huge difference in helping us to ensure that everyone living with cancer in the UK gets the best care possible. I can’t wait to see what we achieve by working together in 2025.”

JANUARY

Butcombe Group launches initiative to combat loneliness

Butcombe Group pubs across the south of England have launched a new initiative this week, 21 January - Butcombe’s Big Table Talk.

With aims to combat loneliness, encourage connections and band people together, Butcombe’s Big Table Talk is a weekly invitation open to those who may be looking for company.

Either alone or with friends, the initiative invites the public to visit the initiative and enjoy a free tea or coffee and conversations with other members of the local community.

Butcombe Group chief growth officer Jamie Queen says: “Pubs are the original social network, somewhere at the heart of communities for people to come together and socialise.

“No one should feel alone, so here at Butcombe, we are launching Butcombe’s Big Table Talk where everyone is welcome, to encourage genuine connections and conversations which, hopefully, will make a big difference.

“We’re encouraging those looking to meet and make connections to come along to one of our participating pubs, meet others and get chatting.

“Let’s build a stronger, more supportive community, one conversation at a time.”

Butcombe’s Big Table talk launch week coincided with Blue Monday, associated historically with the most low day of the year exacerbating higher levels of loneliness and isolation for certain people.

According to The Campaign to End Loneliness, loneliness is one of the largest public health challenges in the UK.

In 2022, 25.9m people (49% of adults) in the UK reported feeling lonely occasionally, sometimes, often or always.

Butcombe Group pub locations holding the big table talk include Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Worcestershire, Dorset, Oxfordshire, Surrey, and London.

Greene King operators celebrate 20 years behind the bar

Greene King Pub Partners, the leased, tenanted and franchise division of Greene King, has celebrated the 20th anniversary of one of its operators.

Steve and Hayley Pellegrini have been at the helm of The Portland Arms on Chesterton Road in Cambridge for the past two decades.

The Portland Arms, operated by the duo in partnership with pub owner Greene King, has a 200-capacity ‘gig room’, complete with a PA stage and bar facilities and has become “famous” in the area for its music offer over the past 20 years.

Previously, the award-winning pub has hosted the likes of Ellie Goulding, Paulo Nutini, Mumford & Sons, Wolf Alice and Two Door Cinema Club.

Most recently, the venue hosted The Last Dinner Party, who shortly after won the BBC Sounds of 2024 poll.

As well as providing a platform for “breakthrough” music acts, The Portland Arms supports its community by working with groups such as Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge University school of music and Perse School to give young performers their first steps onto a live stage.

Numerous charity and fundraising events as well as shows for local good causes are also hosted at the pub throughout the year.

Steve and Hayley said: “From day one, our vision has been to make The Portland the place to go in Cambridge for grassroots live music and over the years we have been so proud to build a loyal following and growing reputation both in Cambridge and across the country.

“As well as our live music, we still pride ourselves on being a traditional pub –so when there isn’t a band playing, we are still that hub for the local community, serving great food, real ale and craft beer.

“The last 20 years have been an absolute privilege, serving the local community and supporting upcoming artists on their pathway to fame. Here is to more of the same in the next 20 years.”

In recognition of Steve and Hayley’s 20 years at The Portland Arms, Greene King Pub Partners managing director Dan Robinson alongside business development manager Andy Swift and operations director Phil Arnold presented them with a specially made plaque and certificate to display at the pub.

Robinson said: “I am deeply honoured to present this plaque to Steve and Hayley, and recognise their 20 years at the helm of The Portland Arms.

“The Portland Arms is not just a great pub, it is an institution.

“It’s reputation as a grassroots music venue is goes beyond Cambridge even.

“Steve and Hayley deserve full credit for turning it into the famous venue it is today – and I am sure will continue to be for decades to come.”

• See positive stories from across the sector in 2024 here.