A WEST Oxfordshire pub has beaten thousands across the country to be crowned England’s best.

The Trout at Tadpole Bridge, near Bampton, scooped the AA Hospitality Awards Pub of the Year title in front of 700 people at a ceremony in London.

Gareth and Helen Pugh took over the pub three years ago. It went on to suffer extensive damage during the 2007 floods.

Mrs Pugh said: “We are absolutely delighted and completely taken aback. It is a testament to all the hard work put in by all our wonderful staff.

“Monday’s ceremony was fantastic – a really lovely occasion for us.”

The AA Hospitality Awards honour the best hotels, restaurants and pubs in the UK. The couple received their award from newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky.

AA Hotel Services group area manager Giovanna Grossi said: “We selected The Trout because this delightful historic property features top notch inn-keeping, great food, a great range of cask ales and beautifully appointed accommodation.”