A REDDITCH pub has been named one of the best in the UK and will compete to win a top award.

The Hart at Headless Cross, which has recently reopened after a £400,000 transformation, has been named the best pub in Worcestershire by the National Pub and Bar Awards.

The family and dog-friendly pub will now try fight off 93 pubs across the UK to win the overall National Pub and Bar accolade.

Reacting to the news, The Hart was overjoyed to be named as a county winner.

On Facebook, the team posted: “We'd like to thank all of our guests who have continued to support us in our first year of trading and look forward to celebrating with you soon!”

One well-wisher wrote: “It’s down to the fantastic staff you have from chefs, waitresses, waiters and bar staff who have supported you from the offset, so well done to you all.

Whilst another said: “All of your hard work has been recognised.

“And you have a fantastic team keep up the great work guys.”

The final awards ceremony will take place in London on June 28 where the county winners will discover which pubs will be taking home a regional title, as well as which site is to be named the UK’s best.

Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub and Bar magazine, which runs the awards said:” “We were overwhelmed by the level and quality of entries this year,”

“It just goes to show what magnificent work is going on across the UK hospitality sector.

“With outrageous energy costs, recruitment shortages and a punishing taxation system, these businesses are once again facing tough times.

“Now, more than ever, it’s vital that people support their local pubs and bars.”