This week I am back on the pub trail to a popular, historic watering hole by the banks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

The Gannow Wharf dates back to the mid Nineteenth Century. Although it's not quite as old as the 127 mile man-made waterway, that is currently celebrating its 200th birthday.

Mick Rowley and his partner, Catherine O'Callaghan, are at the helm here and have owned the canalside hostelry for almost 12 years.

You get an instant traditional pub feel as you walk in. There is a spacious lounge and bar area, comfy fixed benched seating and a couple of nice, wood panelled alcoves, ideal for relaxation and chit-chat. The pub also has a good sized games room with pool table and a vast covered smoking shelter, that overlooks the canal side.

However, as you know, my visits are mainly in identifying a well kept selection of beers - usually the sign of a well run pub. And Mick certainly had a fine line-up on his bar. Six permanent cask ales from the Burnley brewer, Reedley Hallows. All priced at £2.40.

It presented a selection dilemma as Reedley Hallows roll out some great beers. However, I finally plumped for my favourite Reedley brew, New Laund Dark, a most flavoursome stout with chocolatey aroma, and having chocolate, coffee and dark fruit flavours. It hits the spot every time - a quality quaff.

Mick said: "Old Laund Bitter is our best seller, it flies out. Pendleside and New Laund Dark though, are not far behind. All six are popular with the customers. That's why I have them all on permanently."

One interesting beer was a blend of Pendleside and Nook of Pendle, namely, Wharf Defence Beer, named in recognition of all the armed services. Mick said: "The brewer, Pete Gouldsborough and I got our heads together and came up with this 4.5% offering."

Crikey, it was a belter. Refreshing, malty smooth - and bursting with citrus and tropical fruit flavours.

The regulars at the bar were a real jovial and witty bunch. And I had to ask them about all the many certificates adorning the walls.

One regular, George, soon explained: "It's the 'Gallon Challenge'. You have to drink eight pints in one visit. I've done it twice. And you receive a t-shirt and certificate."

Mick added: "There's no time limitation - and it's within the hours of opening. We advise not to drink before! The first one to do it was Gaz Burton, in September 2007. Over 340 have completed the challenge - and it includes four women."

Unfortunately, half way is my threshold nowadays.

I loved my visit to this canal side drinking den. Mick was a most entertaining and affable host. However, pubs similar to the Gannow Wharf are becoming more difficult to hunt down. Especially on the periphery of our town centres. Thankfully though, there are still quite a few left in our locality - and long may that continue.