Royal Oak is local CAMRA's country pub of year

June 9, 2008: The Royal Oak, at Barton under Needwood, near Burton Upon Trent, has been named country pub of the year by the Burton and South Derbyshire branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). A framed certificate has been presented to the pub.

“The Royal Oak is unique as it asks its customers how they would like to be served, either from the hand pump or straight from the barrel,” said Nik Antonia, CAMRA's regional director. “It’s a nice touch and shows that the pub understands the value of real ale.”

Marston’s licensees Katy Parkes and Stephen Boulter, who have been at the pub for over two years, received the award on behalf of the pub and the village.

“We’re over the moon to win the title,” said Katy. “It is not an easy job running a pub, but winning this award has made it all worthwhile, and I would like to thank all of our staff and customers for supporting us and making it possible.”