over again in Herts Multi-award winning McMullen's pub the Maiden's Head has struck gold again, after being named Hertfordshire Pub of the Year by the Campaign for Real Ale. Mike Jones, tenant of the house in Whitwell, along with his wife Barbara, puts his success down to two simple principles good management and establishing a pub at the heart of the community. "We've been here just over 20 years and we learn as we go along," he said. "A lot of it is common sense and care. It's important to keep the right turnover we make sure we stock the right amount of beers." The down-to-earth approach extends to the standard "pub grub" on offer, from sandwiches to steaks, and there is no restaurant. McMullen's AK (3.7% abv) is the best seller. "The most important thing is wet sales, looking after the community and making sure people meet people," Jones said. "I think the village pub should be the centre of the community. People come here, meet people and get involved. That's how it's always been." The Maiden's Head, which won the Camra North Herts Pub of the Year award last month, was also named North Herts Community Pub of the Year in 2001 for its fundraising activities. The pub regularly puts on charity fundraising events and hosts meetings for groups including the local cricket club, golf club and Women's Institute.
