DURHAM real ale drinkers have voted The Woodman Inn in Gilesgate as their pub of the year.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) Durham and District branch chose the pub for its range and standard of ales under the careful stewardship of publicans Peter and Mary Collins.

The pub has staged seasonal beer festivals in conjunction with the local Camra members in recent years.

Branch chair Ken Weaver bestowed the award, in the form of a beer tap trophy and certificate, at a celebratory evening.

Ken said that while the voting was close, the decision was testimony to the pub's reputation. He said: "It's really got all the attributes that we're looking for in our perfect pub.

"There's a good friendly atmosphere, good beer quality and a brilliant choice.

"It's fair to say Peter has done a lot to support the craft brewers around the UK, particularly the local brewers, and that's reflected by what you see on offer along the bar."

Peter Collins said: "I'm gobsmacked we got it. It's always gone to a pub that's made dramatic changes, yet we've just really kept on doing what we've always set out to do."

The Woodman now goes forward as the branch's nomination for the regional Pub of the Year title, to be decided at the end of the month.

Whichever pub lands that honour then represents the North-East in the national final at the Great British Beer Festival in London in August.