Kings Head, Allendale manager recognised in Community Champion Award

Hayley Watson was thrilled to receive a letter from Hexham MP Guy Opperman telling her that she had been nominated for his Community Champion Award.

Her actions of saving Allendale's pub, the King's Head, was one of the reasons for someone to nominate her.

 Hayley, 30, and her sister Beth Watson, 27, from Haydon Bridge, were announced as the new managers of the pub when they heard it was going to close.

They joined their mum Tracy, who is the head chef, and Beth's partner Ben, the handyman - making the business a family affair.

Hayley also runs vegan and vegetarian sweets businesses and the pair have both worked in pubs and have a very supportive family - so they both knew it would work out.

Hayley has also been in the limelight over the past few months about her concerns over toads getting squashed by cars. Not only did she go out late at night to try and rescue a group on the road but got the backing of the council which, in turn, provided toad crossing signs near ponds.

Guy Opperman's letter to Hayley Watson (Image: Hayley Watson)

Both of Hayley's actions were commended in the letter, which said: "I am delighted to inform you that you have been nominated for a Community Champion Award.

"I have been very impressed to learn of your passion and commitment to protecting animals which recently culminated in you being able to persuade Northumberland County Council to provide signs to protect toads from being run over.

"I was also told of your commitment to your community when, at a day's notice, you agreed to take over the King's Head in Allendale which prevented it from closing.

"Huge congratulations you are a very worthy winner and a credit to Northumberland!"

Speaking about the nomination, Hayley said: "It’s really sweet and I’d love to say thank you to whoever nominated me!

"I never expected any media attention and certainly not a recognition from the local MP, so it’s a lovely surprise."