A TRADITIONAL village pub has received a top honour at a prestigious regional awards competition.
The Old Fox at Coaley, near Dursley has won Pub of the Year at the 20th Cotswold Life Food and Drink Awards held at Cheltenham Racecourse.
The much-loved village 300-year old freehouse is run by Julie Gilborson and Ellie Sainty.
The pair purchased the pub in 2018, when it was known as the Fox & Hounds, and renovated it extensively before reopening in November of that year.
“We are delighted and proud as punch to be a winner in these prestigious awards,” Julie said.
“Our dedicated team offers hospitality at its best every single day, and this recognition is a huge compliment to them and to our excellent suppliers and wonderful customers who all make our job a pleasure.
“Hospitality faces unprecedented challenges but we are committed to continuing a quality experience for our guests.
“Supporting local suppliers and small businesses across the Cotswolds, who offer a cornucopia of quality produce with dependable service, will be essential in enabling us to deliver and to grow our business.”
Co-owner Ellie said: “We opened the Old Fox with the emphasis on great quality food and drink and good old fashioned hospitality for our customers."
“Gradually we were building a strong business when Covid hit and we had to close.
"During Covid we did free meals for the more vulnerable in the village, online quizzes and a Friday Fish and Chips night to keep a connection with everyone who was missing the pub.
“We are absolutely delighted to win this prestigious award and we thank everyone who voted for us.
“It's a really lovely recognition for what we do here especially at this economically difficult time.
“We are looking forward to the challenges ahead and to the good times, which are plentiful at the Fox.”
The Cotswold Life Awards were held in October after a three-year Covid hiatus.
The awards began in 2002 to celebrate and reward the rich and varied Cotswold food, drink and hospitality industry.
You can see all the other winners for the Cotswold Life Food and Drink Awards for 2022 here.
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