''Incredibly special': Northampton landlady wins two more awards for exceptional contribution to the pub industry

Miranda Richardson, landlady at The Squirrels and The Hart, both in Duston, has been recognised with two prestigious awards at the recent Greene King Franchisee Day, earning both the "Support Pub of the Year" and "Regional Franchisee of the Year" titles.

Miranda said: “I'm beyond proud to have received two awards at the Greene King Franchisee Day. Winning Support Pub of the Year means so much to me, as it recognises the work I do stepping in to help other franchisees, always speaking up for hospitality and the challenges we face. Our industry is full of ups and downs, and being a voice for that is something I value deeply.”

The "Regional Franchisee of the Year" award holds particular significance for Miranda, as it was a nomination from her fellow franchisees across the Midlands region.

She said: "The second award is incredibly special because it was a nomination from my fellow franchisees. To be chosen by my peers makes it even more meaningful, and I can't thank you all enough for your support.”

She was quick to acknowledge the team behind her success, adding: “None of this would have been possible without my amazing team at both The Squirrels and The Hart. Your dedication and hard work allow me to do what I do, and I'm so grateful for everything you do each day. And of course, a huge thank you to Greene King for the continued partnership – together we achieve great things.”

Miranda began her journey in the pub industry in 2018 at The Live and Let Live in Harpole. She then became a Greene King franchisee in 2022, managing The Squirrels, before expanding with a second franchise at The Hart.

On the key to running a successful pub, Miranda said: “It’s about giving the right offering to all of your guests. It has to be about making it a comfortable, safe, and clean environment, and one that goes above and beyond for every customer that comes through the door. “You have to be inclusive. That’s how the pub game has evolved. You need to be flexible and consistent in everything you do.”

Miranda also touched on the positive impact her pubs have had on the village. She said: "I think it’s given the village something to be proud of. Especially with the way the town centre has changed, many younger people feel safer at our pub. We have a good offering, especially at the weekends, where they can feel safe. They know they can enjoy a band, drinks, and food without worrying about things like drink spiking or fighting. That’s what they’ve come to know and expect.”

In April, Miranda won the ‘Outstanding Contribution’ award at Greene King’s ‘Night of Excellence Awards’ for transforming the into a ‘much-loved heart of the community’.

A Greene King spokesman previously said: “Miranda took on the pub as franchisee landlady in August 2022, and in the almost two-year period since, has transformed the pub into a much-loved heart of the community.”