They fought off tough competition from five other finalists to win the top accolade this year.
The duo were presented with the trophy at the BII Summer Event yesterday (Tuesday 17 June), which took place at The HAC Royal Artillery Ground in London.
Dove and Higgs run the 17th Century pub in the heart of Witney, which is described as a “favourite with locals.”
LOYA is renowned in the industry with a rigorous four month judging process.
Every stage of the competition gives entrants an opportunity to evaluate their business, using the free mystery customer visits and feedback from the expert judging team of industry professionals.
Beyond humbling
On receiving the award Dove praised his pub company Admiral Taverns who he said “took a punt on us.”
He added it was “beyond humbling” to be on stage with the other finalists.
“We wanted to put our own mark on it and be a real community hub, which we meant and it wasn’t a pipe dream in an interview,” he continued.
Meanwhile Higgs called the win “surreal” and praised the work of the BII.
He said: “I didn’t think in my wildest dreams I would be having this lovely trophy.
“The pub industry is tough. We fight every single day. We know that 25% of pubs have gone, we know that is happening but we have to believe. Pubs are the life of Britain.
“We are the hub, we are the community, we give what we can and it is more than just a pub.”
Admiral Taverns CEO Chris Jowsey said he was “absolutely thrilled” for the operators, adding the achievement reflects everything the pubco stands for.
More than a pub
Jowsey continued: “Since taking the pub over just two years ago, our licensees have created a vibrant social hub that offers residents so much more than just a place to drink and this award stands testament to that.
“It’s been a joy working with Mike and Tommy so far and I’d like to take this opportunity to further congratulate them on such a huge moment!
“I’d also like to extend a special thanks to our fantastic licensees at The Border Terrier, Janice and Amanda, who alongside The Three Horseshoes made it into the final six which in itself is a phenomenal achievement.”
Following the ceremony, BII chief executive Steve Alton, said on LinkedIn: “Thank you to all our guests for joining us at the BII Summer Event.
“With our brilliant finalists at the heart of the day it allowed us to showcase what is so special about our fantastic pubs in every community.”
He added: “All of our finalists were exceptional this year and we will hear more from them all. A huge congratulations to our Licensee of the Year Award winners Tommy Higgs and Michael Dove from the Three Horseshoes.”
