A Wallingford pub has been crowned the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) 2024 Pub of the Year for South Oxfordshire.

Dave and Emma Howse, Cross Keys Wallingford's licensees, scooped up the award after significantly elevating the standards and diversity of the real ales from their four hand-pumps since the pub was bought by Oak Taverns Ltd from Brakspear.

The Howses' commitment to providing a rotating selection of three ales from across the nation, paired with a locally-brewed XT house beer, has proven a winning combination.

Oxford Mail: Dave HowseDave Howse (Image: Emma Howse)

The South Oxfordshire branch of CAMRA said it "would like to wish Dave and Emma huge congratulations and we will look forward to presenting you both with not only the Pub of the Year but also the Cider Pub of the Year during the beer festival over the Easter weekend".

The Cross Keys Wallingford saw off competition from the Bird in Hand in Henley, The Black Horse in Checkendon, The Red Lion in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell, and the Spire & Spoke in Watlington, which were also shortlisted.

The South Oxfordshire branch of CAMRA added that it was "with great pleasure" that it announced Cross Keys Wallingford as the winner.

CAMRA is an organisation based in St Albans which promotes real ale and cider, and traditional British pubs.