A NORTH Shropshire community pub near Whitchurch has won an award for the UK's 'Best Country Pub' in the Countryside Alliance Awards.

The White Lion Community Pub in Ash Magna received the acolade in the 'Rural Oscars' which took place in the House of Lords on Wednesday, May 17.

Rural businesses across the UK are invited each year by the Countryside Alliance to enter the awards across several categories.

The pub competed against other pubs across the UK and it thanked customers for the support shown.

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On its Facebook page, manager Shaun Embrey said: "We've only gone and won the UK's best country pub.

"An event to be remembered held at the House of Lords this afternoon.

"The Countryside Alliance awards shining the light on rural businesses across the UK, simply phenomenal.

"There were some absolutely outstanding pubs that were in the category for the champion title, and it was truly an honour to meet some of the best landlords in the UK.

"This award could not have been achieved without the incredible hard work, dedication, and consistent effort from the White Lion team.

"We truly value all that you do for the pub and the fantastic service you provide.

"In addition, a huge thank you to our loyal customers, community, and shareholders.

"The pub would not be able to survive and thrive without your support and friendship.

"Once again, we are humbled by all who have supported the pub over the years.

"We simply cannot put it into words how overwhelmed and grateful we are to have achieved 'The Best Pub in the UK' title."

Tribute was paid to bar manager Felix Davies who died in a collision last month.

A White Lion spokesperson said: "Felix would have been so proud of this achievement, which is a tremendous monument to his talents as well as a great recognition of the fabulous work done by Shaun and all his colleagues."

The White Lion team was joined by North Shropshire MP, Helen Morgan to celebrate their win having visited the pub last year during Ash Fest.

Mrs Morgan said: "It is wonderful to see a fantastic North Shropshire local given the recognition it deserves.

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"The White Lion is a pub, but it is so much more than that too.

"It is the hub of the village, something I saw for myself at last year’s Ash Fest.

"Hopefully this well-deserved win puts a spring in the step of Shaun and the whole team, and shows that community-owned pubs can thrive in places like North Shropshire."