Revealed: Aylesbury Vale’s best village pub

The Oak in Aston Clinton was overall winner of Aylesbury Vale District Council’s Village Pub of the Year competition.

It fought of stiff competition from 37 other local establishments, with judges describing the venue as a ‘hidden gem’ and commendeding a range of things including service, food, value, ales and the pub’s play area.

Patrick Hayward, landlord of the winning pub, said: “We are over the moon to win the award. I would like to say a massive thank you to our customers – we couldn’t have done it without them.”

The Pointer in Brill, The Pilgrim in North Marston and The Old Fisherman in Shabbington collected awards for Best Food Pub, Best Community Pub and Best Family Pub respectively.

Councillor Angela Macpherson, cabinet member for leisure, communities and civic amenities, said: “Our village pubs play a huge part in local life and through this competition we strive to support them, help raise their profile and make sure they’re here to stay.

“We have seen some excellent pubs nominated this year that are not only selling great food and beer but are bringing people together by hosting local clubs and throwing open their doors for community events. Our residents have really got behind the competition, which goes to show how much village pubs mean to rural communities.”

All 19 pub finalists and winners will be included in the 2015-16 Recommended Village Pub Guide. Pick up your copy from the tourist information centres or download it from www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/village-pub-competition