I WAS very intrigued last week, after reading about a poll that had been conducted in the Lancashire Telegraph, they were endeavouring to identify where the most popular pub in East Lancashire was.

And after asking the readers to tell them where they thought it was, a shortlist of five was declared, in order to carry out a vote to reveal a winner.

Now, let’s put this type of poll in to perspective here: it was not to be taken too seriously in all fairness. A straw poll, an unofficial vote, in my opinion. It was a poll where readers, who had a fondness for their pub, had an opportunity to vote their favourite boozer ‘the best pub in East Lancashire’.

So, after the poll had closed, it was declared that the Warner Arms, Accrington, had prevailed out of a shortlist of five local watering holes. And it gave me an opportunity to pass judgement on the winner.

I had never visited this town centre establishment before. It’s a most attractive, rambling and historic looking structure.

On entering, I experienced a very warm and friendly greeting from bar manager,Kirsty. A most affable young lady. She was busy serving and interacting well with the customers. First impressions were very favourable.

The pub was quite busy for a Monday afternoon. Lots of friendly banter and chit-chat from various areas of this spacious, open plan and immaculately presented establishment. Also, a few colourful characters provided some cheery entertainment around the bar area.

There were four cask ales available on the bar. I initially plumped for the Tetley Gold. A refreshing golden ale in excellent condition. It was priced at £2.30 a pint. Other ales were offered at £2.45.

The pub offers lots of different areas to enjoy your beverage: spacious bar/lounge with lots of seating; pool room; raised, enclosed space, offering a comfy and tranquil environment; and a large, enclosed, well presented beer garden. The latter looking resplendent with its floral displays of hanging baskets and tubs.

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On returning to the bar area, I had a swift half before my departure. It gave me an opportunity to witness once more, the unpretentious and friendly environment within.

It was a most enjoyable social and drinking experience at the Warner Arms. I congratulate their recent success in landing ‘top dog’ status in Lancashire Telegraph’s ‘most popular pub poll’. I will certainly be making a return visit.