Friendly Worthing local wins regional brewery award for Community Pub of the Year

The Rose & Crown, in Montague Street, believes a pub should be more than just a place to grab a pint – it is the heart of the community, with fundraising nights and charity challenges encouraging everyone to pull together to make a real difference.

Licensee Chris Hodge, who has helped provide Easter eggs, Christmas presents and fundraising support for many people across Worthing, has won the Best Community Pub Operator award for Wales and the South of England in brewery Craft Union's annual Operator Awards.

He said: “We would like to thank all our customers, friends, Romans and countrymen for supporting our charity events, which resulted in winning Community Pub of the Year for Wales and the South of England with the brewery.

“Your continued support is very much appreciated. Well done to everyone – this award is as much yours as it is ours, and you deserve it!”

The award recognises the pub’s commitment to the local community and the charity events it holds throughout the year, supported by customers, friends and local residents.

It follows success at the Worthing Community Awards in May, where Chris Hodge won Business in the Community 2026 for his support for veterans, local charities and families in need.

Melanie Peters, founder of the Worthing Community Awards, said: “Another fantastic and very well-deserved win for Chris and the Rose & Crown. They won Business in the Community at the Worthing Community Awards because of the huge amount they do to support local charities and the wider Worthing community.

“It’s lovely to see that work recognised again on an even wider scale. Chris and the team put so much back into the community, and the support they receive from their customers plays a huge part in what they are able to achieve.”

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