Hook Norton crowns its best pubs

Rene Klein and Alison Saul of the Great Western in Aynho, Oxfordshire have been named Hook Norton's Best New Licensees.

The pair were crowned at the Menzies Welcombe Hotel, Spa & Golf Club in Stratford upon Avon.

"The Hooky Gold Awards are part of our programme of continuing excellence, which provides ongoing business support for the people who run Hook Norton's tenanted pubs," said Hook Norton managing director James Clarke.

"Judging the awards becomes harder each year as our tenants are working harder to raise their standards.

"For the first time we have an award for beer and food matching. We believe this is an important step in recognising the increasing awareness among consumers that beer is the perfect partner to many foods.

"As a brewer with an estate of 47 tenanted pubs, it is vital we support the independent businesses running them, which between them generate hundreds of jobs across the region."

Other winners included:

• Best Kept Cellar: Ian Payne and Annette Hegerty, Eagle Tavern, Witney

• Best Exterior: Paul and Sandra Swain, Angel, Burford

• Best Website: Andy and Sharon Pearce: Great Western Arms, Blockley

• Charity Fundraising: Carol Wixey and Jamie Murray, Hare and Hounds, Wardington

• Best Beer Garden: Ken and Eileen Thompson, Butchers Arms, Balscote

• Best Beer and Food Matching: Paul Organ, Coach and Horses, Banbury

• Highest coring Cask Marque: Roger Constable and Julie Smith, Kings Head, Napton-on-the-Hill.