Sara and Kelly Hirst, operators of the Black Swan in Ripon, are celebrating after winning the “Best Community Pub Operator” award at Craft Union Pub Company’s annual Operator Awards.
The Black Swan has become a central hub for Ripon locals, offering a packed schedule of activities throughout the week.
The judges commended Sara and Kelly for elevating the venue’s role in the community over the past year.
Their efforts include creating a weekly walking group that was featured on ITV’s Lorraine, launching the council-backed Ripon Pride festival, and even building a “floating pub” parade float in less than a week to keep a beloved local tradition alive.
Sara and Kelly said:
“We’re over the moon to receive this award.
"The Black Swan and the Ripon community have always been our passion, and to see our hard work recognised at this level is amazing.
"We’re proud to serve our local community, and it’s so rewarding to know our hard work over the last year has made a huge difference for our customers, team, and community.
"We can’t wait to keep on supporting our local area for years to come.”
The Black Swan hosts a wide range of events, from darts and dominoes leagues to live music, poker nights, and screenings of major sporting events.
Seasonal activities, such as kids’ discos, Halloween parties, and Easter egg donations take place too.
They helped raise £48,000 for a local teenager who lost her family in a car accident, £3,800 for a child undergoing cancer treatment, and continue to support Ripon Primary School’s breakfast club.
In addition, they’ve lent a hand to individuals in need, including decorating a veteran’s home with donated furniture.
Frazer Grimbleby, Managing Director of Craft Union, praised their efforts, saying:
“Sara and Kelly’s dedication to their community is nothing short of outstanding.
"They’ve built the Black Swan into a place where people come together, feel supported, and take pride in their local.
"Their passion and connection to their community truly reflect the spirit of what Craft Union stands for.”
The Craft Union Operator Awards take place each year to celebrate pub operators across the UK who make a positive difference in their communities.
Ripon City Council councillor could have to resign after reporting colleague to police
Harrogate firm helps provide warm clothing for local children in need
Harrogate MP joins volunteers to deliver Meals on Wheels
'Cruel and controlling': Harrogate man jailed after years of abuse
Harrogate Brewing Co win awards for region's best beer
Ripon pub owners named national winners of community award
Knaresborough pubs to host premiere of festive film shot in the town
Air ambulance rescue teenager after horror quad bike crash near Pateley Bridge
Country estate set to be powered by solar energy
Harrogate law firm retains top-tier recognition in UK legal guides
Your Harrogate to launch Lewis Capaldi ticket giveaway during Stray Bonfire
Harrogate strongman set to compete for British title
Calls for Yorkshire Water Chief to resign following "immoral and unjustifiable" offshore payments
Long-established Harrogate tech shop set to move to bigger premises
Warnings after confirmation of bird flu in North Yorkshire
First look at Harewood House's Bridgerton-inspired Christmas
Harrogate's most festive pub to return this month
Ripon hotel scoops two national awards following public vote
Remembrance Sunday: Events, parades and road closures
Harrogate care residents race wheelchairs in support of Meals on Wheels
