'A part of everyday life'

IT'S BEEN said that the government's potential U-turn on business rates could be announced soon, with Rachel Reeves suggesting that it may mostly benefit pubs, rather than the rest of the hospitality industry like hotels and cafes.

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The Chancellor said that the 'situation the pubs face is different from other parts of the hospitality sector', and thus needs to be looked at accordingly. Whilst any concrete information is still waiting to surface, it is hoped it will serve as at least a small bit of welcome relief for the many pub owners and operators in the country - estimated to be around up to 46,000.

But there are still lots of positives to be found for those working and running pubs.

In fact, we've decided to stay in the same area as last week's Pub of the Week as there must be something in the water there. Sticking to Wilbraham Road, this week we're shining a light on The Spread Eagle in Chorlton.

Since last summer, it's been Chris Southworth, 45, who's been overseeing proceedings as pub manager and he says it's the spirit of the area that really makes it a special place to work.

Operated by Joseph Holt, the pub - which is said to have been established in 1900 - is often a lively one thanks to its karaoke every Friday and live music from local singers every Saturday night.

Not only a pub, The Spread Eagle is also a hotel with seven en-suite bedrooms. They're particularly popular with people visiting the city for weekends, or for unwinding after trips to the Lancashire Cricket Club or Old Trafford football stadium.