A POPULAR pub has been crowned the best pub in the North West.

The Black Bull at Sedbergh was one of 15 pubs to be named as the best in its region as 94 county-winning venues gathered in London to celebrate the achievements of some of the leading businesses in the industry.

The National Pub & Bar Awards brought together pubs and bars from across the UK, each one having been awarded the title for the best in their county. From these, 15 Regional Winners were selected before the national winner - The Frogmill, Gloucestershire - was crowned the overall winner.

James Ratcliffe, co-owner of the Black Bull said: "This is totally unexpected, and so far, this year is proving to be a bit of a rollercoaster, having picked up several awards and our second AA Red Rosette for Culinary Excellence.

"This is testament to every member of the team who does their utmost to ensure each, and every guest had the very best experience possible. Working together as a team is what it’s all about and we’ll just quietly keep doing what we do and hopefully take everyone that visits the Black Bull on that journey with us as we progress.’’