STAFF at Worcester News' Pub of the Year winner have been celebrating.

The Pub of the Year trophy was presented to Bedwardine pub landlord Sebastian O'Donnell and his daughter Maisie by Worcester News reporter Sam Greenway on Saturday.

The Bromyard Road family friendly pub heard the good news when it was announced last week, and take our coveted trophy after receiving the most votes from readers during the seven week competition.

Comments from readers on the nominations slips praised the pub for having fantastic and polite staff, the cleanliness of the pub and its disabled access, a good selection of beer, and for having an "excellent atmosphere". One reader added the St John's watering hole was a "great all rounder".

After receiving the trophy Mr O'Donnell said it was great to taste success in the completion.

"To win this award in our first year is absolutely fantastic," he said.

"Reading the comments people said about us (on the nomination slips) was great.

"Without the support from the locals, our customers, and my family, none of this would have been possible.

"All our teams here supported us - we have a pool team, darts team and skittles team that backed us.

"We have a little community hub here.

"For us to come first, and the Bell Inn to come third, for St John’s that is brilliant too."

Mr O'Donnell added the trophy, which is specially inscribed with the words: 'Worcester News Pub of the Year 2018, The Bedwardine', would be going on show to the public in a glass cabinet at the pub.

For winning the award, Mr O'Donnell also receives an invitation to the Houses of Parliament by the city's MP Robin Walker.

The competition's runner up was the Fox and Hounds in Lulsley, while the Bell Inn came third.

Michael Purton, Worcester News' editor, added: “The competition has proved a massive success with readers.

"Congratulations to everyone at the Bedwardine.”