A BRADFORD landlady has told of her joy at her pub being up for a top award - only a few weeks after she started in the job.

The Telegraph & Argus launched its Best Pub 2024 contest recently.

Readers were asked to share their favourite drinking establishments - and a fantastic 6,389 nominations flooded in.

The nominations were narrowed down to 10 and we have now started the process of profiling each of the finalists.

Today we are highlighting the Horse and Groom on Beacon Road, Wibsey.

The Telegraph & Argus recently launched its Best Pub 2024 competition - and the Horse and Groom is in the running for the top titleThe Telegraph & Argus recently launched its Best Pub 2024 competition - and the Horse and Groom is in the running for the top title (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

Landlady Melanie Kearns said: "It's great that we're up for this award. 

"For a small village pub, it shows we have some amazing support.

"People are clearly enjoying what we provide and love spending time in the Horse and Groom. 

"I've only worked at the pub since early-June but I've been made to feel really welcome by all the regulars - and many customers have followed us from our previous venue.

"We also saw many new faces joining us during the Euros.

"We've been getting some fantastic feedback."

Charity is important to Melanie, her family and staff at the pub. 

She added: "We are big Bradford City fans and engage with a lot of fundraising for the burns unit and hope to continue doing so.

"This year our daughter has been signed for Bradford City U10 Girls and they raise money for a charity called the Penny Appeal, which we will certainly be getting involved with."

The Penny Appeal aids people in over 30 crisis-hit countries worldwide.

Melanie said she was excited to have many more great times at the pub.

"We are starting to introduce new games nights and other activities," she said.

"We already have a meat raffle and quiz night which attracts some great feedback.

"You can be sure to find plenty of Bradford City flags, scarfs and memorabilia hung up around the pub - and the bar staff are always welcoming, especially if you are bringing a dog in for a drink."

Part of the award-winning Craft Union Pub Company, which has 500 sites and belongs to the Stonegate Group, the Horse and Groom offers an extensive drinks menu.

Don't miss out on your chance to vote for your favourite pub.

All you need to do is fill out the voting form, which can be found in the T&A newspaper until August 3.