A TRADITIONAL village pub has been given a top honour by the West Dorset Campaign For Real Ale.

West Dorset CAMRA gave Mat Stayner and Rob Robertson of the Kings Arms, Thornford their Pub of the Year award.

A spokesman for West Dorset CAMRA said: “Members of West Dorset Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) would like to offer their sincere congratulations to Mat Stayner and Rob Robertson of the Kings Arms; Thornford who have won this year’s West Dorset CAMRA Pub of the Year award.

The pub was a clear winner and beat off stiff competition from other worthy pubs and was judged by a team of independent CAMRA judges.

“The pub is a superb example of a traditional village free house set right in the centre of Thornford (near Sherborne), home to nine skittle teams, serving four well kept Real Ales and a traditional cider with a complement of fine home cooked food with Rob as the chef and Mat running front of house.”

Reacting to his win, Rob Robertson said: “We were overwhelmed to win and feel very proud.”

Mat Stayner added: “I feel that this is confirmation of the pub going in the right direction as a community pub sourcing local products and suppliers and supporting small businesses in the process.”

The pub says it ‘takes care to ensure the quality of our ales and great pride in delivering a good pint’.

“We source the majority of our ales locally from Dorset and Somerset independent breweries along with other Southwest ales.

“Come and try one of our selection of ales, wines, spirits, soft drinks or beverages.

“Along with our varied menu, our team aim to cater for your every need.

“Whether it’s drinks or coffee with friends, dinner for two, a relaxed lunch, a large party with the whole extended family or a function, our bar, restaurant, skittle alley and garden is the perfect location for any occasion.”

The pub will now advance to the CAMRA Wessex regional finals.