The landlady of a popular Leigh pub is "absolutely delighted" as the venue has been crowned "outstanding pub of the year".

Krystle Morgan, operator of the Woodcutters Arms, in Eastwood Road North, was surprised to not only win the coveted title in the Craft Union Pub Company Operator Awards 2023, but has also bag a trip to Vegas.

The shortlisted finalists were all invited to a celebratory awards ceremony hosted by director of Craft Union, Frazer Grimbleby, and director of Group Transitions, Carol Roderickson, who announced the winners of a range of categories, from sales and growth to sports performance.

One of the biggest awards up for grabs on the evening was the Outstanding Pub of the Year Award, which was awarded to the much-loved Leigh pub.

Krystle said: “I was so surprised, but absolutely delighted and honoured to win Outstanding Pub of the Year.

“To be recognised by the Craft Union community means so much to me, as myself and the team work so hard to make our pub the best social spot for our local community.”

Now in its eighth year, the awards recognise the incredible work carried out by Craft Union Pub operators and highlight their dedication and devotion to putting their pubs at the heart of their communities.

Mr Grimbleby said: “I felt immensely proud to have hosted the Craft Union awards evening for our operators, who do so much to serve their communities.

“This wonderful occasion was an opportunity for us to come together to celebrate and recognise the best of the best. Reward and recognition has always been, and will continue to be, a key part of the very special Craft Union culture of which I am so proud.”

Operator-led Craft Union is currently made up of more than 500 community pubs, launching its 500th site earlier this year in Leicester.