The manager of a popular Reading pub has said that he is over-joyed to have been awarded Pub of the Year in the 2023 CAMRA awards.

The Alehouse, located in Reading town centre, has seen rising popularity following its takeover in 2015 by the current manager, Carl Mellors.

The selection of various real-ales and ciders imported from different areas across the UK and the continent means that any customer will always be spoilt for choice.

Manager, Carl Mellors said: “We are absolutely chuffed to received pub of the year for Reading and Mid Berkshire CAMRA. It has been one of my goals since I took over the pub in 2015 and we’re all so happy that we’ve finally achieved it.

“The Alehouse has been runner up a few times and a few years ago we won Cider Pub of the Year but this is our biggest achievement to date.

“Throughout the years we have made different tweaks and improvements to the services and drinks that we offer, and the hard work has all paid off.”

CAMRA members judge their Pub of the Year category on several specifications that must meet their exacting standards.

From quality of beer, selection of real ales to staff knowledge, the award showcases which public house is the best-of-the-best.

Throughout Reading and Mid Berkshire, CAMRA members were convinced following multiple visits to the pub that the Alehouse would come out on top.

Mr Mellors added: “I always make sure that we have an excellent selection of ales and ciders for our customers to enjoy.

“We also make sure our ethos aligns with CAMRA's aims to deliver the best quality ale from a host of locations across the world.

“I believe if a customer cannot find a beer that they like at The Alehouse, then they probably don’t like beer!”

CAMRA members from Reading and Mid Berkshire joined staff and customers at the pub on Wednesday, April 5 where they were presented with the award.

The Alehouse will now be entered into the regional CAMRA awards and then the national awards which will take place over the next few months.