A rural pub which was closed and derelict five years ago has won a prestigious award from the Campaign for Real Ale.

Martin and Julie Ryecroft took a gamble when they bought the rundown Shepherd and Dog in the hamlet of Ballards Gore, near Canewdon, after 20 years in the hotel and pub industry.

Now they have won the South East Essex Camra Pub of the Year Award.

The award is made by the local branch each year to the pub that has consistently performed on a number of fronts, not least the quality of the beer.

Camra spokesman Mike Woods said the pub had a light, airy feel at lunch-times, but a darker, cosier feel in the evenings.

The restaurant has an excellent reputation and regularly changing guest ales are maintained by Mr and Mrs Ryecroft, who are members of the British Institute of Innkeeping.

Mr Ryecroft said: "It is just five years since we took over the Shepherd and Dog, so this is an excellent present for us."

Published Wednesday August 4, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Echo