BY PETE HENSHAW

ONE of the barmen at Haslington's Hawk Inn, is forging a career as a landlord after taking over at the pub.

Danny Howell-Jones started doing part-time work at the pub six years ago before coming a regular behind the bar.

Now, with the retirement of licensee Wilf Bachelor, Danny is to take the reigns.

Danny, from Jessop Way in Haslington, was studying for a HND in Business Administration at the Crewe Campus of Manchester Metropolitan University when he first took to the pumps.

Having learnt the ropes under the guidance of Wilf Danny has had a rapid rise to the top and completed a course run by the brewers, Robinson.

The course taught Danny about the industry and touched upon personnel, finance and law.

Danny walked away with a certificate in health and hygiene which is a must if you want to run your own pub.

"For me the most important aspect has been learning how to keep cask conditioned beer in good condition," said Danny

"There is a lot to this business and if you do not get it right your customers soon let you know," he added.

The Hawk is a sixteenth century coaching inn and some of the furnishings have already been changed but the friendly atmosphere is staying according to Danny!

"It has been an easy transition I have always enjoyed working here and knew it was an opportunity not to be missed," he added.

Trade is officially on the up as well and Danny is working on developing a beer garden and barbecue for next summer.