Flood-hit pub gains top accolade

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A pub which was badly hit by devastating floods in 2007 has been named as the Campaign for Real Ale's pub of the year.

The Kelham Island Tavern, in Sheffield, was at the centre of the chaos caused when the River Don burst it banks in the city 20 months ago.

Trevor Wraith bought the semi-derelict pub in 2001 and reopened it in 2002.

But the floods in June 2007 wrecked the floor and cellar, forcing it to close for six weeks.

Mr Wraith said amazing support from the local community helped the business recover.

"That day when the water came in was just incredible," he said.

"It started with water running down the street but you could see it was going to get much worse."

Mr Wraith went on: "Everyone has worked hard since then, though, and it's amazing to think we're now named as the best pub in Britain."

He said the success of the pub was down to combination of a respect for the beer, his knowledgeable staff and the garden, which is his pride and joy.