Long Eaton’s longest serving publican — Amanda Jones of The Sportsman on Granville Road — has received an award to mark her 21st anniversary at the helm.
The Dedication Award was presented by Star Pubs in recognition of the positive difference that Amanda has made to The Sportsman and the town over the last two decades.
It’s the second award received by Amanda this year, having already been given a Community Link Award for her contribution to the area.
Long Eaton born-and-bred Amanda runs The Wilsthorpe Tavern on Wilsthorpe Road, too, and is the only licensee to have two pubs in the town.
Her fathe and grandfather were former customers of The Sportsman, and she took over the pub in 2005, when it had lost its way and much of its trade. Under her stewardship, the pub has been transformed into a much-loved top-quality local that specialises in sports and functions.
“I’ve known The Sportsman since I was a little girl,” said Amanda. “It’s always been the heart of Long Eaton, and it’s just as important to the community today as it was back then. It’s a great honour to have received these awards; we couldn’t have done it without the support of our wonderful regulars.”
