The Baum in Rochdale, Lancashire, is CAMRA National Pub of the Year

The building has only been a pub for around 30 years and was converted from Morris’s Hardware Store in the 1980s.

Simon Crompton, one of the owners, started work in The Baum in 1993 and became manager in 1994. In 2005, Simon and his wife Heidi, who co-owns the business, bought the pub just two days after having their first child.

The three other finalists were Bridge End Inn in Ruabon, Wales; Conqueror Alehouse in Ramsgate, Kent; and Tom Cobley Tavern in Spreyton, Devon.

“We were ecstatic to hear that we had been voted CAMRA’s National Pub of the Year,” said Heidi. “We are very proud of the team that have played an important role in the Baum’s success and it is a testament to their hard work that the consumers have recognised our pub with this prestigious award.

“We are a family run pub with our values influencing every aspect of the business in relationships with our staff and suppliers. We are dedicated to the ‘buy local, shop local’ initiative, always willing to support independent businesses. The support from the regular customers and local CAMRA members is valued and we would like to thank everyone for their continued support.”

CAMRA’s pubs director Julian Hough said: “This close to town pub has a winning formula which is well supported by customers. The range of quality products and their fresh modern approach means I’m delighted to crown the Baum our National Pub of the Year. Go and see it for yourself and experience what a brilliant pub it is.”