Caring staff at Barrhead pub aim to prove they’re the best bar none

The Kelburn Bar is in the running for the Heart of the Community accolade in this year’s Best Bar None Awards, with the winner to be announced at a glittering event at the Dunblane Hydro.

Sisters Sandra and Diane Kirk have been running the Cross Arthurlie Street watering hole for five years, taking over from their parents, who had been in charge since 1971.

“We’re absolutely delighted about being named as a finalist,” said Sandra. “It’s good to get the recognition.

“We do a lot of hard work and I’d like to thank the clientele, as we wouldn’t be successful without the continuing support of the community.”

Over the years, the Kelburn Bar has supported a number of causes that are close to the hearts of its customers.

Sandra said: “We’ve been doing things such as handing out leaflets about prostate cancer to everyone who came in and giving out Christian Aid envelopes and then collecting the money for them.

“A lot of the time, it’s the guys who come in who come up with the ideas of how we can help others.”

As well as raising money through charity events such as darts competitions or dominoes tournaments, the staff and customers look out for each other on a regular basis.

“If older customers need a lift home, we make sure they get back safe and sound or, if someone needs a lift to the hospital or to pick up a prescription, we can sort that out,” said Sandra.

“Everyone works together.”

Another initiative that proves The Kelburn Bar is at the heart of the Barrhead community is its ‘gentlemen’s club.’

Sandra explained: “Men come in for a coffee and a chat. They don’t need to have a drink. They can just play dominoes or darts or whatever.”

Robert Hogg, Best Bar None Scotland’s national co-ordinator, said The Kelburn Bar is “very deserving” of its status as a finalist.

He added: “These national awards celebrate the very top venues in Scotland which have gone over and above in terms of social responsibility.”