What I love about pubs: Hamish Champ

The Publican's city editor, Hamish Champ, on what he loves about our pubs.

Keeping things simple and having a welcoming attitude. I love that in a pub, and the Wheatsheaf in Stoney Street is a rather wonderful, if sublimely simple. A few years ago it was threatened with closure, standing as it did in the way of a proposed railway extension which was set to run out of nearby London Bridge station.

After a few months of being boarded up and seemingly destined for a date with the demolition ball a white knight came riding to the rescue in the form of the nearby Borough Market Association and lo! the 'Sheaf was saved.

Re-opened in 2002 after a sympathetic refurbishment by owner Young's (it appears to have taken the view that if it ain't broke, just brighten it up instead of bunging in a load of Fancy Dan stuff) it features two straightforward bars with stripped wooden floors and an arrangement of chairs 'n' pews 'n' tables, connected by an open area towards the rear.

Thankfully it never gets so full that you can't find a spot to enjoy a well delivered pint of Special or one of the guest beers on offer. They do food, too, which is simple fare and well priced.

Overall, the atmosphere, drink, conviviality and value on show at the Wheatsheaf represent everything I love about pubs.

Are you Proud of your Pub? If so, drop us an email to tell us why at qnavryc@gurchoyvpna.pbz​.​