A pub in Failsworth which is in the process of a major makeover with new landlords at the helm is celebrating winning an award for 'going above and beyond'.

The Houghton Arms on Oldham Road has seen plenty of changes since Simon and Sandra De-Wynter White took the reigns in March this year.

The pair have big plans to transform their beloved alehouse into a "community pub" with refurbishment works already underway and a lively line-up of games and entertainment scheduled.

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From TVs showing sports and a jukebox to pick some of your favourite tunes to a darts team, a pool table, a pen and paper quiz on a Monday, karaoke and "nonsense" bits of fun games, like "guess the number", there's always plenty going on at the pub.

The pub's mascot, Henry Houghton, is also a popular member of the team - if he's not on holiday with customers - and the pub's surprise 'guest' cask ales has proved a hit with customers who can accumulate a free pint through the Houghton's loyalty card scheme.

The pair are also in the midst of bringing their own festival and mini Christmas market, plus a "Houghton Heroes" Saturday morning meet-up for serving and ex-veterans and emergency service workers.

Their tweaks and fun approach to pub life have already seen The Houghton Arms rapidly increase its 'reputation score' from 631 to 900 in the first four months.

This puts them in the top ranks of reputation for Marston's Pubs.

Now, the pub has been recognised with a top award, 'guest experience outstanding progress' in the 'pub of the year' heats for Partnership North.

Simon and Sandra have been invited to collect their new award during a glitzy celebration lunch in Knutsford next month.

Reacting to the news, Simon said: "It's absolutely fantastic, we didn't even know that we were in the running for it, never mind winning it.

"It was like a bolt out of the blue.

"To be recognised so soon for going above and beyond shows that all our hard work is paying off.

"Nevertheless, it was a total surprise.

"At first we thought that it was just an invitation to the ceremony, not that we had won."

The award comes as Simon and three other friends are planning a 15,000-foot parachute jump to raise money for Greater Manchester blood bikes next month.

As for what's next at the pub, watch this space as Simon said he's "just not dreamt it yet".

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk