Brewery wraps up 'Big Coat Day' after big success

In previous years collections have totalled almost 2000 warm winter coats

Winter has bitten especially hard this year for those struggling to make ends meet, but a Middleton pub stepped up to help those in need.

The Joseph Holt brewery called on its big-hearted customers to ease the burden through the Big Coat Day project, with The Roebuck in Middleton playing a key role.

The initiative, run by Football Club United of Manchester (FC United), successfully collected winter coats, warm clothing, toiletries, and other essential items to distribute to those most in need across Manchester and beyond.

The Roebuck was one of six pubs acting as a collection point, alongside The Fairway Inn in New Moston, The Railway and The Church Inn in Newton Heath, The Blue Bell in Moston, and The Fox Inn in Blackley.

The response was overwhelming. In previous years, collections totaled nearly 2,000 warm winter coats, 604 pairs of walking shoes and boots, and an array of new underwear, hats, gloves, and scarves.

This year followed suit, with generous donations of winter gear and toiletries like toothpaste and sanitary products ensuring those in need had access to much-needed warmth and comfort.

John Thompson, national account manager for Joseph Holt, reflected on the success of the initiative:
“At Joseph Holt, we have always been focused on the vital roles played by our pubs in local communities and the difference they can make.

"The Big Coat Day exactly chimes with our philosophy since it is such a vital initiative – bringing warmth and essential items to those most in need across Manchester and beyond.”

He added, “Our big-hearted customers repeatedly step up to the plate to help those less fortunate – as witnessed by our annual school uniform collections.

"We have also just raised £600,000 for The Christie through our 175th-anniversary appeal. Once again, through our participating pubs, our customers have shown just how much they care, bringing much-needed comfort to those who are struggling.”