ABINGDON’S Nag’s Head has been named as Oxfordshire’s best pub by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

The pub only re-opened in November after being boarded up for more than a year.

Owner and executive chef Dushan Salwathura, who also runs the Broad Face, has revitalised the pub, which is on the bridge approaching the town. It has already featured in CAMRA’S Good Beer Guide.

Mr Salwathura said: “This is a fantastic honour for me and the team who have worked incredibly hard to make the Nag’s Head a success.

“Our staff and customers have been loyal and I thank the CAMRA for their support.

“My aim in opening the Nag’s Head was to make it a destination pub known for its good beer, fine wines, excellent food and live music.”

The Nag’s Head, formerly owned by Punch Taverns, closed in 2011 due to rent costs and tough winter trading.

A CAMRA spokesman said: “The Best Pub of the Year award for Oxfordshire is an astounding achievement.

“With 26 pubs on average closing every week across the country the Nag’s Head is bucking this trend.”

To celebrate its first birthday and its gong, the pub will host a beer festival from November 1 to 3.