Freckleton’s much-loved Coach & Horses pub, fondly known as Ponky’s, has received praise at the highest level, with Fylde MP Andrew Snowden name-checking the award-winning local in the House of Commons this week.
During a debate on extending pub opening hours for the upcoming UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 tournament, Mr Snowden took the opportunity to highlight the Coach & Horses’ recent win in his Fylde Pub of the Year competition, which saw 63 pubs nominated from across the constituency.
Speaking from the Despatch Box as the Shadow Minister, he said:
“63 pubs were nominated in my Fylde Pub of the Year competition, won by the Coach and Horses in Freckleton. And I am sure the two Grahams who run this cracking establishment will be delighted with a shout-out from this Despatch Box. But even more delighted that they’ll have a bit of extra time to sell some more pints of Ponky’s Ale!”
Mr Snowden, a long-time supporter of local pubs and breweries, backed the temporary licencing changes that will see venues allowed to stay open two hours later should England or Wales reach the semi-finals or final of the UEFA Women’s Championship next month.
“These changes are about more than just football,” he added. “It’s about supporting our locals, our community hubs, at a time when too many are struggling. Sadly, since the autumn budget, we’ve seen a spike in pub closures. The Chancellor’s raid on pubs has cost the average venue at least £2,500 per full-time employee. Sixty percent of pubs have had to cut jobs, and three-quarters have increased their prices.”
He continued:
“So while we all welcome these licensing changes that let us enjoy the tournament a little longer at the pub, for some, the local might not even be there much longer unless we actively support them. That’s why it’s more important than ever to back our locals, like Ponky’s, not just for special occasions, but every week.”
The Member of Parliament for Fylde ended his speech in typical patriotic fashion:
“I wish both the England and Wales teams the very best of luck. But of course, I’m biased, and I hope to be raising a glass to England once again thrashing Germany!”
