A PUB in Elmley Castle has taken a prestigious prize in the Visit Worcestershire's Tourism Awards for Excellence.

The Queen Elizabeth Inn was announced as the inaugural winner of best tourism pub at an award ceremony held at The Bank House Hotel in Bransford.

The award, sponsored by Celtic Marches, was presented by Professor Kate Williams, author, historian and TV presenter with Neil Lavender-Jones receiving the prize on behalf of the Main Street-based pub.

“This award recognises the hard work undertaken by the staff and the community to re-establish The Queen Elizabeth Inn as the beating heart of the village, whilst also serving as a destination venue for the residents of nearby towns and villages, and tourists alike,” Mr Lavender-Jones said.

“It’s important for us to maintain our local’s bar, whilst offering good quality food and beverages, sourced locally as far as possible.

"Our location at the foot of Bredon Hill, and our historic connection with Queen Elizabeth 1, also makes us an attractive venue for walkers and tourists who are visiting the area."

The Queen Elizabeth Inn is housed in a 16th century building in the centre of the village.

It was reopened by the villagers in December 2014 after an extensive refurbishment.

The popular pub has gained a reputation for serving food from Tuesday to Sunday offering a variety of menus, and for having an extensive selection of real ales, cider, lager, wines and spirits.

There is a also a cafe that opens during the day offering a wide selection of teas and coffee, together with cakes and other snack items.

Mr Lavender-Jones added: "In this day and age of many pubs closures, it’s great to see the villagers in Elmley Castle being rewarded for keeping the pub open.

"Long may it continue."