Tad Dawson’s 50th

WHEN Tad Dawson, turned 50 on Saturday July 4 he celebrated in style and over 40 friends and family flew over from Britain to wish him well.
Tad is one of Benidorm’s greatest success stories. He came over 22 years ago and opened the first Yorkshire Pride pub.
Soon he found that one was not enough to satisfy his hard working ethic and now he has three Yorkshire Prides, Bar Why Not and The Queen Vic, all providing Benidorm with warm Yorkshire hospitality, great food and beers and amazing entertainment.
Tad is a celebrity in Benidorm and a Channel 5 television film crew recorded the celebrations for a future show about Benidorm and its personalities.
The Euro Weekly News managed to have a few words with him before he threw himself into the celebrations with his friends and family.
When asked about the driving force behind his tremendous success Tad smiled: “I work hard and play hard. When I was younger I realised that you don’t get anywhere by coasting through life, you have to grab it by both hands and make it what you want. I work seven days a week, going from pub to pub making sure they have the stock they need, but for me it is not really work, it is my passion.”
Tad’s approach comes from his days playing rugby where if you do not give it your all you soon find out the hard way! He still supports his home team Castleford Tigers and Yorkshire Pride sponsors their kit.
When asked if he intended to slow down and enjoy the rewards of his hard work Tad said:  “Not yet, I intend to keep going! Why stop at five pubs, I am sure there might be a couple more, never say never is my motto.”
Success follows Tad wherever he goes and when asked about his secret he was quick to answer: “Having the best staff in the world – without them none of this would have been possible. They are like family to me and I hope they feel the same.”
A very generous employer, every year when they close before the Christmas rush, Tad takes the whole staff on holiday before the frantic festive season.  
Looking to the future, Tad was adamant about where he would be in another 20 years: “Right here, I have no intention of going anywhere – bring it on!”
Glyn, who has worked for Tad for 13 years said: “He is the best boss you could have, loyal and supportive. I am looking forward to his 100th birthday party.”
Tina said: “His heart is as big as his personality.” Steve, manager of Yorkshire Pride 2 said: “I wouldn’t work for anyone else.”
Daughter Paige said: “He is wonderful and certainly knows how to enjoy life.” And partner Olivia added: “He is so generous and kind.”
As the cake was cut, crafted in the colours of Tad’s beloved Castleford Tigers, music drew everyone to their feet and we asked Tad for one last comment:
“Keep working – it keeps you young! And Castleford Tigers to win the league.”