A PUB and beer retailer, which is housed in the first Norman House to be built in York has been named Britain’s best independent craft beer retailer.

The House of Trembling Madness, which opened seven years ago in Stonegate, has won the accolade in the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) annual business awards.

Ian Loftus, landlord of the pub which features beams from ships of more than 800 years ago and is decorated with animal skins and ancient taxidermy, said winning the title had come as a surprise as he had not attended the awards ceremony in Sheffield.

He added: “Its great for a local independent business in York to gain national recognition.

“We work hard sourcing new up and coming brands as well as stocking the greatest world beers. Our range contains over 1000 different craft ales that change seasonally.

“Hopefully, we can continue to develop and grow through the knowledge we have gained and serve the people of York for many years to come.

“We are still in limbo over our lease not being extended with Bettys in 2018, but we are in the process of relocating to a new exciting premises that will be announced later in the year if licenses and planning are granted.”