Two pubs in Birmingham were recognised for the essential role they play in the community by judges of the Publican Awards, a national awards ceremony that celebrates everything that’s great about the world of pubs and bars. 

The Harborne Stores on the High Street in Harborne and Great Stone Inn on Churchfield Road, Northfield are both very much at the heart of the communities they serve. Both pubs actively fundraise for local and national charities and are regarded by customers as a home and away from home.

Situated at the heart of Harborne, The Harborne Stores is very much a local’s pub, where everyone knows everyone. One of the most giving pubs in the area, General Manager, Charlene Shams and the team work tirelessly to raise funds for charity. Through organising raffles, games and quiz nights, the pub has raised almost £10,000 for Parkinsons UK, as well as money for Cancer Research and the local St. Mary’s Hospice.

On the other side of town, The Great Stone is a traditional pub with a fantastic beer garden, situated in a quiet residential area of Northfield. It has been there for hundreds of years; it even has a large boulder in the garden which is over 500 years old with a plaque declaring its authentic origins.

The pub, which is run by General Manager Janet Ward, has a reputation for offering a safe and secure environment. Like the Harborne Stores, it is also a huge supporter of charity. The team has also raised funds for St Mary’s Hospice in Birmingham as well as Edward’s Trust (set up in memory of a seven-year-old boy who died of cancer in Birmingham Children’s Hospital) Prostate Cancer, Breast Cancer, the County Air Ambulance Trust and the Royal Orthopedic Hospital. They also support local schools and provide a meeting place for a number of different groups; the rugby club, football club and local diving team.

Janet said: “It means a lot to the whole team here that we have been recognised for the important role that we play in the community. Pubs bring people of all ages and from all walks of life together which is so important, particularly nowadays, when more and more people are living on their own. We feel proud of the fact that people feel relaxed and at home here and we go out of our way to provide a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike.”

Charlene and her team were also delighted by the news. She said: “We are proud of the fact that we are able to make a difference in the community by pulling together to raise funds for charity and support people in need. Home is where the heart is and I know our regulars really feel that the pub is at the heart of Harborne, so it’s fantastic to be recognised for our efforts.”

Pop in for a warm welcome from Charlene and the team at the Harborne Stores and Janet and her team at the Great Stone Inn.

Harborne Stores, 109 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 9NP

Great Stone Inn, 158 Church Road, Northfield, Birmingham, B31 2LU