THE Red Hart at Awre, near Newnham, has been named as the top pub in the Forest of Dean by the Campaign for Real Ale.

The award has delighted landlord Jerry Bedwell.

"We were runners-up last year so we are naturally delighted to take top spot this time. The concept of real ales is important to the pub," he said.

The locally brewed Freeminer Ale is always available and at any one time there are always four or five other real ales on tap.

Mr Bedwell said the quality of his beer owed much to the care and attention taken by cellarman Russell Robinson.

"Russell does a really good job. He likes all the beers to be in top condition and is as delighted as me with the success," he said.