A POPULAR watering hole has been lauded for its top ales and branded the best pub in Essex.

The New Inn, in Chapel Street South, Colchester, took home the coveted title just months after the establishment was named Pub of the Year by the Colchester and North Essex branch of the Campaign for Real Ale.

Joe Hanrahan and Shannon Boyle have run the pub for almost two years, overseeing a surge in popularity.

Now the delighted pair will take home the crown for Essex Pub of the Year.

Tony Smith, from CAMRA Colchester and North East Essex, said: “It is a backstreet corner pub and they have transformed it into the county pub of the year.

“Joe and Shannon have put their heart and soul into the pub and made a strong impression. They should be very proud.”

The award was voted for by CAMRA members and the pub could now go on to win regional or national titles.

Also winning high praise was The Red Lion, in Belchamp Otten, which won second place and The Hop Beer Shop, in Chelmsford, coming in third place.

Mr Hanrahan said the award had capped off an “amazing” year for the hard-working couple.

He added: “This is our first pub and we are very proud to accept this title.

“People might have called it a back street pub before we took over, but it’s definitely a community pub now. We try our best to be really welcoming, we serve Sunday lunches and vegan options - which have become very popular.

“It has been a blur and we are still taking it in.

“I think people enjoy our traditional style, good ales and nice garden.”

Hot on the heels of announcing the winner, CAMRA is gearing up for this year’s Real Ale and Cider Festival.

In its 32nd year, the event will run from May 30 to June 3 at Colchester Arts Centre, in Church Street.

More than 160 real ales, real cider and perry, Belgian beers, English wines and soft drinks will be on offer, as well as live music.

Visit colchestercamra.org.uk for more.