A POPULAR county pub has won a prestigious national award, recognising the hard work of its staff and management.

The owners and staff at The Fox and Hounds in Lulsley are celebrating after being awarded the coveted title of the Best Pub in Worcestershire as part of a national industry awards.

The Fox & Hounds was been named Worcestershire’s Best Pub in the 2019 National Pub & Bar Awards.

The Fox & Hounds will now go forward to the national finals, which will see 15 regional winners crowned as well as the overall national pub and bar of the year announced.

Hosted by food critic Jay Rayner, the event takes place at BAFTA in London’s Piccadilly at the end of May.

Manager Tom Clarke said that the accolade was a “Really great surprise and honour”.

He said: “Being recognised on a national level really is credit to all our fantastic customers, local suppliers and extremely hard working staff.

“We have invested a lot of time and energy into helping make The Fox & Hounds the best it can possibly be."

Tom’s Assistant Manager is Ryan Taylor and Head Chef is Graeme Davis, all of whom work to make the Fox and Hounds a success.

Located just off the Worcestershire Way, The Fox & Hounds has built a strong following for its locally-sourced menus and real ales.

Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which hosts the awards, said: “Selecting this year’s 94 county winners has been nothing short of inspiring.

“From idyllic countryside pubs to inner city cocktail bars, this is the most eclectic and exciting industry in the world.

"It’s a privilege to help these businesses get the recognition they deserve.”

The National Pub and Bar Awards recognise excellent service, best practice and entrepreneurship across the country.