A HISTORIC village pub has been recognised as the most improved watering hole of the year in the area.

The Cap and Feathers, in Tillingham, was voted Maldon and Dengie CAMRA’s most improved pub of the year.

The pub won the CAMRA National Pub of the Year award in 1998.

Local real ale lovers voted the pub as being the most improved after it went through a transformation.

The 15th Century weatherboarded pub has undergone lots of changes since Sean and Helen Cole took over as bosses.

Their Sunday roasts are said to be popular and the pub stocks a good selection of beers.

The pub also hosts regular events including live music and charity fundraising music and bingo nights.

Landlady Helen said: “We are very privileged to receive this award. We want to thank our family, customers and staff for their continued support. We couldn’t do this without them.”

CAMRA's James Burrell-Cook said: “This award isn’t one we make every year, but we were really impressed by the hard work Sean and Helen have put in since taking over the reins to enhance this lovely village pub.”