OH they do like to be beside the seaside at the Hospital Arms in Colchester.

And even though they are more than 15 miles away from the sea, that hasn’t stopped them transforming their pub into a little bit of a classic resort.

To be precise Southwold, inspired by owners Adnams Brewery, who are located in the Suffolk coastal town, and in particular their iconic beer mats.

Ros Puffett, who is joint landlady with sister Lindsey Heward at the Crouch Street pub, arranged for an artist to paint a seaside mural on one of the garden walls and, along with its very own beach hut as well, the brewery have been so impressed they have presented them with an award.

Mrs Puffett said: “It was part of an inter-Adnams pub competition and we picked up the best merchandising award. It is a bit creepy I know but our customers love it. With the flower pots and tubs, the heater and now our Christmas tree it looks lovely out there.”

Along with a certificate, the pub received a cash award which Mrs Puffett said had covered the cost of the mural.

She added: “It's a nice gesture and it’s great to be recognised for all the hard work we have put into making the pub a nicer place to be.”