A KINGTON tavern, described as a throwback to the hostelries of the 18th and 19th centuries, has been voted Herefordshire CAMRA pub of the year, the Hereford Times wrote in December 2004.

The Olde Tavern, crammed with curiosities and original furniture, is considered by CAMRA to be part of the nation’s pub heritage.

Praised for being a vibrant thriving community pub that is both welcoming and traditional, judges were also impressed by the quality of the beer.

Run by Steve and Gaye Dunn, the Olde Tavern is the place to go to sample the delights of the Dunn Ploughman Brewery, which the couple own.

Two other country pubs were judged runners-up by CAMRA. The Alma Inn at Linton was named best country pub for Herefordshire.

Unashamedly a drinkers’ pub, the Alma Inn specialises in selling beers from small local breweries, proving that it is possibles for a pub to be popular without selling food.

Traditional Leominster pub, the Grape Vaults, also received its fire CAMRA pub award.

Members described the Broad Street hostelry as oozing character with its wooden panels, bench seating, a snug bar and a roaring fire.

The photo shows Steve and Gaye Dunn.