Tom and Pam Baxter from the Smithy Inn, Carnforth in Lancashire pride themselves on their ‘meals on wheels’ offer, helping to ensure the community have access to homecooked, hearty meals.
Tom is a first responder and both himself and Pam support local charity events including the annual Boxing Day duck race as well as the Santa Dash for Charity.
Most recently, the Baxters won the Community Hero Award at the Thwaites Hospitality Awards 2022.
During lockdowns, the pub became the local shop, supplying residents with essentials they were struggling to get.
Service recognised
Furthermore in 2014, author John McQueen based his book Home from Holme around the Smithy Inn.
The couple celebrated their 30th anniversary at the pub in 2017 and Thwaites brewing ‘Baxter’s Best’ – a limited edition ale for the local area – in honour of their achievement.
Moreover, the operators were also presented with a special plaque and gift, to recognise their time at the pub.
Historic occasion
Daniel Thwaites director of pubs and brewing Andrew Buchanan said: “It is a privilege to acknowledge Tom and Pam’s hard work and dedication over the past 35 years.
“This is a historic occasion, one that is fitting for a couple who have devoted their lives to supporting the local community.
“We can’t wait to see what they achieve in the future.”
Before moving to the Smithy Inn, the Baxter family ran fellow Thwaites pub – the Penny Street Bridge in Lancaster, which is now widely known as the Toll House Inn.
On their 35 year stint, the duo said: “It goes without saying the industry has changed drastically over the past few decades but through it all, the Smithy Inn has remained our home and most importantly, an integral part of the Holme community.
“Being able to support the locals has been an absolute honour and we can’t wait to continue to see what the future holds.”