Swan takes national pub title again

February 17, 2006: The Swan, at Little Totham, Essex, has been named national CAMRA pub of the year.

The 16th century public house - run by John and Valerie Pascoe - takes the title for the second time, having won previously in 2002.

"This is like being awarded 10 Michelin Stars!” said Mr Pascoe. “When the pub was up for sale the parish council made representations to the selling brewery, begging to keep it as a local pub for the community rather than being converted into housing.

“Valerie and I moved in on the June 12, 1996, and worked on the pub with family and friends until it was in a fit state to open on the June 14 at 7pm - we took £124. At first we parked our cars in the front car park to make it look busy, and had our meals sitting outside in the garden for the same effect.

“From those early days we set out to get the pub recognised by CAMRA and have been delighted with the level of support we have received from local branches. We would like to thank all of our regular customers, villagers, CAMRA members and friends for their custom and hope to welcome even more visitors in 2006.”

Bob Stukins, CAMRA’s pubs director and one of the final judges, said: “It has been wonderful to be able to revisit The Swan three years after it last won national pub of the year and see that it is still a shining example within the industry.

"Through their devotion to maintaining the very highest quality in all aspects of the pub, John and Val have prospered and shown others what a marvellous asset the community pub can be.”