It's cheers all round at the Horse & Jockey in Stapleford which is in the running to become CAMRA's best pub in the UK. The prestigious Pub of the Year competition, run by the Campaign for Real Ale, is the highest accolade afforded to the country's pubs.
The pub scooped the prize for the best in the East Midlands title and now goes through to the grand final up against 15 other regional winners. The competition has been on hold over the last two years due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Drinkers at 'the Jockey' have a wide choice of 13 ever-changing ales, including at least one mild or stout/porter. Five are classed as 'LocAle' meaning they are brewed within 20 miles of the "proper" pub in Nottingham Road.
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Pubs in the competition are judged on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, inclusivity, overall impression, and, most importantly, the quality of beers, real ciders and perries.
CAMRA said: "A split-level pub with the main bar area featuring sofas and high tables and warmed by a wood burner, the upper seated area has tables and perimeter seating, a fish tank and sports TV. Light music is complimented by occasional bands and a weekly pub quiz attracts a large gathering. The pub is dog friendly, with water and doggy treats being provided.
"TV shows Rugby Six Nations matches and other occasional major sporting events. Photographs of local landmarks and Stapleford from previous eras decorate, along with whisky water jugs hanging from the ceiling, a yard of ale (if you wish to attempt it) and many CAMRA publications and publicity material. Occasional brewery showcases highlight a range from a LocAle brewery along the bar while occasional beer festivals offer an extended range from temporary stillaging."
The overall winner will be announced on November 30. The regional announcement comes as CAMRA closes its Summer of Pub campaign with a final push to encourage pub-going over the long bank holiday weekend and beyond after "an incredibly difficult" few years for the industry.
A recent YouGov survey has shown that people are cutting back on the regularity of their pub visits at a time when pubs are facing spiralling energy costs and other rising prices. The number of punters going a few times a week has gone from 11 per cent to five per cent. The majority now visit just once every two to three months.
Andrea Briers, national co-ordinator for the Pub of the Year competition said: "This is an incredibly difficult time for many of our beloved pubs as they jump from one crisis to yet another one. The fact that we’re still seeing such shining examples of pub excellence despite these challenges is incredible, and a real testament to these winners.
“I’d encourage everyone to go out and support their local and even seek out these fantastic pubs in your area – they really are the cream of the crop and uphold the very highest standards of what makes a great pub.”
