SalfordOnline

by Tony Flynn

This year's prestigous Neil Richardson Award for the best traditional pub of the year goes to The Queen's Arms, Green Lane, Patricroft, sometimes better known as The Top House because of it's proximity at the top of the brow on Green Lane.

The Quueen's Arms sits next door to Patricroft Station and is regularly claimed to be the world's first railway public house, opening in 1828 in anticipation of the passing trade from the Manchester & Liverpool Railway Line.

The pub was chosen by the North Manchester Branch of CAMRA (The Campaign for Real Ale) and is the second pub in Eccles to be chosen in three years, the first being The Stanley Arms, Liverpool Road, Patricroft. Dave Hallows and Pete Cash from Camra will be on hand to help Neil's widow Sue present the award

The awards came about after Neil's untimely death in 2006, when it was decided that his memory should be honoured with this award, Neil was well known as a local history author, publisher, printer and all round great bloke, who I am glad to say was a good friend of mine and is still sadly missed, so raise a glass to Neil tonight, I will be.

Comment by Guest  7th January 2010 Got loads of Neil Richardsons books, the a4 size publications. I thought this pub was under threat not too long ago, good to see it doing well. I understand the toilet queen victoria used is still theer (although no longer in use!!)

Comment by Guest  7th January 2010 Neil Richardson, lovely bloke and a great loss to both publishing local history books, and his own writing along with Sue. A man we will not forget, thanks for everything Neil and Sue.

Comment by Guest  7th January 2010 Well deserved, the pub still does a great pint of Boddies and there is always a warm welcome at the pub especially on a Thursday evening when Chris gives us all a tune.

Comment by Guest  7th January 2010 chris and myself (Lynn) are very proud to have been given the award and thank everyone who came last night to see us get the award thanks lynn benson