Cross Gaits Inn, Blacko, Lancashire

Marston's tenant Andrew Duxbury has made many business-saving changes during his first year at the Cross Gaits. Perhaps the most crucial has been rebuilding the pub's

cask-ale offer.

After being drawn in CaskForce II for the on-site cellar training, Duxbury — who had already gained the BII's (British Institute of Innkeeping) Award in Beer and Cellar Quality — took the opportunity to bring his barstaff up to speed.

"There's a lot less wastage now. If a barrel is not conditioned properly, they know to look for that before connecting it to the bar," he says.

"Improved beer quality and product knowledge certainly help to grow beer sales."

Raising standards has helped turn the village inn's fortunes around. Volumes are up 65% on last year and a fourth beer pump has extended the range of guest ales, complementing best-selling Jennings Cumberland Ale.

Thanks to his focus on quality, Duxbury has won the loyalty of several local Camra members and has even made cask-ale converts out of some of his lager-drinking customers. The host recently shared his passion for ale by taking 40 regulars up to Cumbria for a Jennings brewery tour.

Other improvements at the pub have included redecoration and the introduction of a fresh food offer, which is being promoted by the pub's Proper Chips campaign.