Woolpack is top Shepherd Neame pub

The Woolpack, in Banstead, Surrey, has been named Shepherd Neame Pub of the Year in its annual pub awards.

Licensees Angie and Danny Irwin were commended for their warm welcome, excellent standards of food and drink and wide range of events and entertainment.

The pub, in Banstead High Street, has a large garden and stages monthly live jazz sessions as well as a host of community and charity events - a recent Black Tie evening raised more than £3,000 for the Royal Marsden Hospital.

Shepherd Neame tenanted trade director George Barnes said: "When Shepherd Neame purchased the Woolpack in 2009 we took on not just a great pub but also exceptional licensees. During the past year, Angie and Danny have developed trade even further thanks to a joint investment project. They provide the highest standards of drink, food and service."

Angie Irwin said: "We treat people the way we like to be treated."

"Shepherd Neame has given us a good feedback and a lot of support and input."

A total of 13 Shepherd Neame pubs won awards for different aspects of running a successful pub, such as serving great food, pulling the perfect pint or being at the heart of the local community.

Full list of winners​

Shepherd Neame Pub of the Year - The Woolpack, Banstead

Managed Business of the Year - Ship & Trades, Chatham Maritime

Tenanted Pub of the Year - Hastings Arms, Hastings

Managers of the Year - The Crown Inn, Chislehurst

New Licensee of the Year - The Belle Vue, Pegwell Bay

Pub Restaurant of the Year - The Granville, Lower Hardres, Canterbury

Pub Food of the Year - The Sun Inn, Faversham

Wine Pub of the Year - George & Dragon, Ightham

Perfect Pint - Hoop & Grapes, Farringdon

Heart of the Community - The Mermaid, Bishopsbourne

Best Garden of the Year - The Peacock, Goudhurst

Small Garden / Hanging Baskets - The Anglesey Arms, Bromley

Lifetime Achievement - Griffin's Head, Chillenden