Fuller's names The Rising Sun as Pub of the Year

The pub, run by Ben Burston since February 2007, won the Griffin Trophy ahead of 391 other Fuller’s pubs.

The licensee said: “This is a fantastic surprise. A pub is nothing without its people so I would like to thank all my customers who have supported the pub over the years and my wonderful staff, who make the pub what it is.”

The pub also took top prize in the Best Country/Village Pub category for the second year running, and wins a £5,000 holiday, a staff party, an engraved plaque.

The Griffin Trophy awards recognise Outstanding Achievement, Best City/London Pub, Best Hotel/Inn, Best Town/Local Pub and Best Country/Village Pub.

Michael Turner, chairman at Fuller’s, said: "I am delighted to be presenting the Griffin Trophy to Ben and the team at The Rising Sun.

“Ben is no stranger to The Griffin Trophy competition, having won his category last year. He has built on last year’s success, taking the pub from strength to strength.

“The Rising Sun is a true village local in the heart of the South Downs National Park countryside. It is renowned for its exceptional atmosphere, great food, well-kept ales, and charming staff.”

The result was announced at the pubco’s Griffin Brewery in Chiswick, West London.