POLICE officers were called to an award-winning pub near Colchester, it has been confirmed.

Essex Police said its officers attended the Hare and Hounds pub in Layer Breton on the evening of January 19.

A force spokeswoman said the police presence was required to assist with a “civil matter”.

Gazette: Pub - the Hare and HoundsPub - the Hare and Hounds (Image: Google)

The venue was crowned the best pub in the county at The Essex Life Fine Food and Drink Awards in 2015.

Police officers were called to the site off Birch Street at 6.30pm last week.

A spokeswoman said: “No offences were identified”.

Pub bosses have not responded to several approaches for comment by the Gazette.