Landlord Richard Billington’s pubs in Thurstonland, Lockwood and Farnley Tyas are bucking the trend

Oct 26 2010 by Sam Casey, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A LANDLORD says he is bucking the trend after turning around the “ale-ing” fortunes of three village pubs in the last 18 months.

According to the most recent figures from the British Beer and Pub Association, released in February, pubs are closing at a rate of 39 a week.

But Richard Billington said his blend of real ale, good food and traditional pub atmosphere has given him a winning recipe.

The 43-year-old took over the Rose and Crown in Thurstonland 18 months ago, the Lockwood in Lockwood five months back and the Golden Cock in Farnley Tyas last month.

He said: “They’re all doing really well.

“The Golden Cock had been in an awful state for ages, but we’ve already trebled the takings.

“The Rose and Crown had just had a series of managers who didn’t really care, but the takings have increased four-fold.

“The Lockwood is slowly improving too.”

Richard, a father-of-one, who also manages the Brass Monkey Brewery in Halifax, admits running the pubs is a labour of love.

His day starts at the brewery 5.30am when he organises his deliveries for the day. Some days he doesn’t get to bed until 1am.

“You can’t possibly run a pub unless you love it, otherwise it’s just a job” he said.