A village pub has been named a local real ale group’s best of the year.

The Hurdlemakers Arms in Woodham Mortimer was named Maldon and Dengie Campaign for Real Ale’s 2014 Pub of the Year.

Chairman Robert Longley said: “The Hurdlemakers Arms were well-deserved winners of the Pub of the Year competition when the beer at the pub was scored higher than any other in the area by CAMRA members using the online beer scoring system during last year.

“As well as offering excellent beer and food, there is always a friendly welcome, and many people come to the pub to drink and enjoy the rural location.“

The award was presented to Gary and Nettie Pilcher, who are tenants of Gray & Sons (Chelmsford) Ltd.