AN Alcester pub has been named 'Pub of the Season' by real ale fans.

The Royal Oak on the High Street was awarded the accolade by members of the Shakespeare branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) this month.

The grade II listed building dates back to the late 18th century and is believed to be home to the longest bar in Alcester.

The CAMRA award is handed out four times over the year to pubs that have made a significant contribution towards maintaining a high standard of selling real ale.

Lloyd Evans, chairman of the branch, said the group had "great pleasure" in handing the accolade to the team at the Royal Oak, led by Ruth Mclaren, licensee of the pub.

Lloyd said: "We always try to encourage pubs in our branch area and the Royal Oak thoroughly deserves recognition as our Pub of the Season as it serves great cask ales in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

"Ruth and her hardworking team do all this with a smile, whilst making all the pub’s customers feel very welcome in the positive atmosphere that they create in this pub.”

The award was given to Ruth Mclaren on behalf of the branch by Rhys Williams, while Alcester's Town Crier was on hand to open presentation proceedings.