The ceremony, which took place at Hockley Social Club in Birmingham, saw the Staffordshire pub beat 24 other finalists to win the coveted title.
Marston’s director of operations Matt Whiting, who presented the award on the evening, said: “It is an extremely tough job picking the category finalists, not least, the winners.
“The Star performs at the highest level in every area and could have arguably been the winner in all categories this year – so they thoroughly deserve to be crowned our ‘Pub of the Year’.”
Heart of its community
Marston’s said the pub operates as a hub at the heart of its community with their support for local charities being at the core.
Its mural dedicated to the Midlands Air Ambulance adorns the outside of the pub and was painted by artist Ellie Johnson to raise awareness of the life-saving charity and donation buckets placed around the pub to encourage much-needed donations.
The pubco added the Star has a cosy welcoming atmosphere, which is cultivated by Heath, who has been at the helm of the pub for almost seven years.
She said: “I was speechless to have been awarded overall winner – I couldn’t stop crying when they gave me the award.
“This award is testament to what we have worked hard to build over the years. A pub that not only prides itself on delivering quality food and beer but also one with a friendly atmosphere that everyone feels at home in.”
Hard work and dedication
Whiting added: “What a great way to end 2023 – we’re proud of our pubs and this ceremony is about celebrating all the hard work and dedication of our tenants.
“As a pub company built on partnerships. They are the key to our success now and for years to come, and this award ceremony is just one way to honour this.”
Other categories and award winners at ceremony:
- Best Food Offer: the Plough & Harrow, Murton, Swansea
- Rising Star: the Queens Head, Kidderminster, Worcestershire
- Community Spirit: the Royal Oak, Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton
- Best Entertainment and Events Pub: the Feathers Inn, Lichfield, Staffordshire
- Best for Beer Award: the Romilly, Cardiff
- Stand-out Service: the Star Inn, Tideswell, Derbyshire
- Chef of the Year: Jack Bull from the Bell Inn, Anslow, Staffordshire
