Churchill Arms is top Fuller's pub

The Churchill Arms in Kensington has been crowned Fuller's pub of the year.

The Griffin Trophy award caps an impressive year for the Churchill Arms, run by Gerry O'Brien, after winning Best Managed House and Best London Pub awards at the Morning Advertiser's Great British Pub Awards. It was also voted London's Best Loved Local in a competition run by Stella Artois.

"The Churchill Arms is a wonderful pub with an exceptional atmosphere, an absolute joy to visit, and fully deserves the 2008 Griffin Trophy," said Fuller's chairman Michael Turner.

"The pub's stunning floral displays really help it to stand out from the crowd, and the amazing collection of memorabilia inside is a reflection of Gerry's infectious personality.

"Many of the items adorning the walls and ceiling feature the pub's namesake, Sir Winston Churchill, and Gerry throws a fantastic 'Churchill Night' party every year to celebrate his birthday.

"Gerry has been at The Churchill for 24 years and this is his third Griffin Trophy win, having also been victorious in 1989 and 2002. He is an inspiration to all, and still has the same energy, enthusiasm, drive and passion he started with.

"I am extremely proud of The Churchill Arms as it is the perfect ambassador for our company."

O'Brien added: "My staff and our customers are a huge part of what makes The Churchill great, so I can't wait to take the trophy back to share the good news with them."

O'Brien received a holiday voucher worth £3,000 and £500 to share with his staff.