A PUBLICAN has won £5,000 to spend on community projects after being named as a regional winner of a national competition.
Michael Davies, of the Beggar and Gentleman in Hoyland, proved there's more to a great community pub than just bricks and mortar when he won regional 'Community Hero' in the contest run by pub company Enterprise Inns.
Mr Davies, who runs four pubs including The Clothiers in Elsecar, could also win an extra £5,000 if he becomes overall winner in the finals at the end of October.
He won the regional prize for his community work including children's parties, organising and funding Hoyland Christmas festivities, coffee mornings and putting on 'value meals' for people who struggle to afford food.
He also does a 'meals on wheels' service for elderly people which is now recognised by social services.
He said: "The funding I won will go towards community initiatives over the next 12 months. We want to donate it across a number of organisations and are looking for deserving projects now."
