23/08/2026
The Auld Hoose has been nominated by our local MP Melanie Ward (Cowdenbeath & Kirkcaldy) for the Community Pub Hero Awards and we’ve made it all the way to the National final in the Community Fundraising Hero category. To even reach this stage is incredible. In my eyes, we’ve already won.
I’ve only been Manager for short while, yet the support I’ve been given from the staff, the locals and the owners has been unbelievable. This nomination makes me truly proud, proud of this pub and proud of this community.
I want to give a massive thank you to our Open Mic team:
Ron Haldane and Brian Nairn — whose years of dedication built the foundation of what this event is today.
Derek Brown — who stepped in and carried the torch with pride.
Paul Plunkett — who brings the event to life through media and social.
For over four years this team has given their own time, month after month to make the last Sunday of every month something special. The number of charities they’ve supported and helped not just with donations (Fife is Best) is nothing short of remarkable. It shows what happens when good people give their time, their talent and their hearts.
To every performer who turns up, no matter the weather and no matter what’s going on in life (thank you). To every local who support the event, supports the pub and supports every charity we stand behind (thank you). It’s you who make the difference.
A special mention as well to Against The Grain, Fife Whisky, and Jamo who have all contributed to local charity events.
And not to forget Marisha Walker Bell and Karen Begg, who managed these events and many other amazing charities long before I arrived. I salute you! Your hard work has now been recognised on a national stage and it’s so well deserved.
Pubs matter, too many have closed. Communities need places like ours, places where people come together, where friendships are made, where support is found and where banter is in abundance. The Auld Hoose is proof of why pubs are still needed and why they still matter.
Let’s keep our fingers and toes crossed. You’re already winners in my eyes and I know many others feel the same.
I’ll keep you all updated with the final outcome.
Robert