A KNOWLE pub is the toast of Solihull after becoming the first in the borough to win the Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) prestigious West Midlands County Pub of the Year 2018.
The Ale Rooms in High Street fought off stiff competition from hundreds of pubs across the region to collect the coveted award which is voted for by CAMRA members.
Earlier this year the pub was named CAMRA’s Pub of the Year for Solihull.
The Ale Rooms was launched by local businessman Mark Caldicott in December 2016, has enjoyed unprecedented success and a loyal following amongst local drinkers.
Mark, who owns the venue along with his wife Amanda, said: “It’s brilliant to be the first pub in Solihull to be named CAMRA’s County pub of year, particularly when you consider the competition we’re up against across Birmingham and further afield.
“We’ve had tremendous support from customers and local brewers such as Silhill Brewery who have been supplying us since we first opened, whilst our twice yearly beer festivals are a particular favourite. Above all else this latest award reflects the hard work our staff put into making the Ale Rooms a great local.”
Following on from the success of the Ale Rooms, Mark Caldicott has now set his sights on opening a second pub in the autumn.
Carl Wright, CAMRA’s Solihull branch chairman said: “I’m delighted for Mark and his staff who have built up a great reputation for their beers and friendly service since opening.
“To be the first pub in Solihull to win the West Midlands County award is a tremendous achievement.”
