A TEAM of hardworking staff are celebrating after their pub was named the best in County Durham.

The Kingslodge Inn, in Durham, was named as the best venue in County Durham by the judges of the National Pub and Bar Awards.

General manager Darren Winder said: “The news we’ve won best venue in Durham is absolutely brilliant – you couldn’t wish for a better Easter present.

"This award win reflects the hard work and effort of all of our team here at The Kingslodge Inn – from our kitchen team to our front of house, housekeeping and maintenance staff who all do a terrific job to make us a winning place to eat, drink, sleep and explore Durham from.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming people in to celebrate with us and see just why we’ve been selected as the best in the area.”

The Northern Echo:

The pub, in Waddington Street, is one of 94 across the country to be named as the best venue in their respective counties.

The National Pub and Bar Awards aims to put the finest on-trade businesses across the UK in the spotlight, showcasing just how diverse and creative the hospitality industry really is.

The Kingslodge Inn will be officially crowned at a red carpet celebration in London on Wednesday, May 22, when 15 regional winners will be announced, as well as the overall pub of the year, at an event hosted by food critic Jay Rayner.

Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which hosts the event, said: "It’s a privilege to help these businesses get the recognition they deserve.”