Hook Norton holds pub Gold Awards

Oxfordshire based Hook Norton held its Gold Awards on Friday to reward its best tenants.

The awards aim to reward the high standards and excellence of Hook Norton tenants and provide business support.

Roger Constable and Julie Smith scooped the Pub of the Year award through their work at the Kings Head in Napton, Warwickshire.

Philip Kingston and Kirsty Riddell of the White Swan in Wigginton, Oxfordshire, won Best New Licensee and John and Trisha Bellinger of the Bell Inn in Adderbury, Oxfordshire, went home with the award for Highest Scoring Cask Marque Pub.

Other winners were:

• Best Kept Cellar — Ian Payne and Annette Hegerty of the Eagle Tavern, Witney, Oxfordshire

Highly commended — Tony and Dorothy Puddifoot of the Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn and Peter and Cathy Wixey of the Gate Inn, Brailes

• Pub with Best Exterior — Tony & Dorothy Puddifoot of the Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn

Highly commended — Simon Finch of the Elephant & Castle, Bloxham and John and Trisha Bellinger of the Bell Inn, Adderbury

• Best Website — Sharon Brace of the Great Western Arms, Blockley

• Charity Fundraising Pub of the Year — Frank and Freya Adams of the Bell Inn, Great Bourton

Highly commended — Carol Wixey and Jamie Murray of the Hare and Hounds, Wardington and John and Trisha Bellinger of the Bell Inn, Adderbury

• Best Beer and Food Pairing — Sharon Brace of the Great Western Arms, Blockley

Highly commended — Mike Howe and Amber Wheatley of the Sun, Hook Norton and Melvin and Sarah Phipps of the Red Lion, Steeple Aston

"As a family brewer, it is important we support the independent businesses running our pubs, which between them generate hundreds of jobs across the region," said managing director James Clarke.

"The Hooky Gold Awards recognise the high standards and commitment our tenants have, and helps them ensure their customers are happy customers."