REGULARS from the Hop Pole in Bromsgrove already knew it - now it's official - the pub serves up a good pint and maintains a consistently high standard.

Redditch and Bromsgrove CAMRA has awarded the Birmingham Road inn with its pub of the season award for autumn 2004. The presentation, by the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ales) officials, took place at the pub. The award was presented to co-licensees Jeff Kay and Tom Ayres, who took over the popular watering hole back in July 2003.

Toasting their success, Jeff said: "It is the first time we have received the award and we are delighted, thrilled and flattered."