A pub in the Meon Valley area has finished the year on a high after beating more than 330 counterparts to win a national trophy.

The Chairmakers was awarded the Griffin Trophy by Fullers after being crowned the winner of the Best Country/Village pub at the firm’s Pub of the Year awards.

It’s a huge accolade for the watering hole in World’s End as all of Fuller’s 185 managed pubs and hotels, and its 151 tenanted inns, vie for the trophy.

Judges described the hostelry run by Anthony Bounds as a “charming countryside pub” surrounded by rolling fields.

But the “drive and determination” of the landlord and team were just as special as the surroundings, with its “famous” Sunday carvery wowing judges.

“Anthony has engaged with the local community – through various local sponsorships and by keeping a thriving social calendar with an array of events,” said a spokesperson for Fuller’s.

“His wife, Krista, and their two daughters have joined him in the running of the pub – creating a family feel, with a warm welcome as soon as you walk through the door.”

The pub’s prize is a £2,000 holiday voucher, staff party and an engraved plaque for the pub with licensee Anthony being full of thanks for his team and customers in accepting the award.

He said: “I’m delighted to have won my category in the Griffin Trophy.

“We have put so much work into The Chairmakers since taking on the business in 2022, so I’m very proud of this recognition.”

He added: “A big thank you to my team and my family – who have played a huge part in winning the award.

“Thanks go to my loyal customers, too, who have given us their support and help to make The Chairmakers what it is today.”