A PUB award nomination which was met with some controversy has been won by a long-serving pub in Atherton. 

The Rope and Anchor in Bolton Old Road was voted for by Bolton West constituents to be MP Chris Green’s nomination for the Parliamentary Pub of the Year. 

Manager Mary Bates said: "We're thrilled. It's quite surprising really with Atherton being quite small. 

"I think people voted because it's a real community pub. People say it's like Cheers — everyone knows your name when you walk in. It's really friendly."

Mrs Bates said the pub was often full of regulars who enjoyed the "reasonably priced" cask ales.

 

MP Chris Green joins manager Mary Bates behind the bar

Other shortlisted pubs included the Rosehill Tavern in Westhoughton. The possibility of the Rosehill Tavern being nominated upset the family of Elaine Horrocks who died after falling down the cellar stairs this year. 

READ MORE: Elaine Horrocks family upset Rosehill Tavern could win award

However, following the vote on Facebook the Rope and Anchor has received the MPs approval. 

Mr Green said: “It has been fantastic to see so many local residents getting behind their local pubs throughout this competition.

“The Rope and Anchor is thoroughly deserving of Bolton West and Atherton’s nomination, with their brilliant contributions to our local community. 

“It was fab to visit the team at the Rope and Anchor and congratulate them on their nomination and I look forward to hearing about their progress in the Parliamentary Pub of the Year competition.”

The national winner of the Parliamentary Pub of the Year competition will be announced later in the year.