A 16th century Essex pub has fought off stiff competition to be named best pub in Britain for the second time.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) awarded the “National Pub of the Year 2005” accolade to The Swan, Little Totham, Essex. The pub also won the title in 2002.

John Pascoe, owner of The Swan, said that he was delighted by the win. “I’m over the moon. It’s like being awarded 10 Michelin stars!” he said.

Camra described the Essex pub as a “shining example within the industry”, praising its attention to detail and owners John and Valerie Pascoe’s dedication to the property.

Camra’s 2006 Good Beer Guide describes The Swan as “an archetypal heavy-beamed village pub. The unspoilt public bar has billiards and darts, while the comfortable saloon has open fires.”

“We won due to the quality and range of our real ales, our warm welcome, and the beauty of the surround,” said Pascoe. “It all adds up.”

The award was presented to mark National Pubs Week 2006, which takes place from 18-25 February.

By Jen Crothers

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