A WANTAGE pub revamped by its new owner 18 months ago has been crowned pub of the year by local drinkers.

The White Horse branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) voted the Shoulder of Mutton in Wallingford Street its favourite pub.

Branch chairman Neil Crook said: “Landlord Peter Fowler is a worthy winner of this year’s award. “Since he took over this classic but struggling street-corner local, he has revived its fortunes.

“He now serves an ever-changing selection of 10 real ales on hand pumps, always in first-class condition.”

He added: “In spite of 16 pubs a week closing around the country, he has proved that there is a ready market for quality craft ales.”

Mr Fowler took over the pub in 2010 and has invested more than £250,000 in the business.

He said: “I knew it had potential. It would take a lot of work and a lot of money but I thought I could turn it round. And it’s proved worth the gamble.”

The pub also only serves vegetarian and vegan food. Mr Fowler added: “There’s a synergy between real ale, vegetarian food and folk music.”