BROMSGROVE, Redditch and Droitwich CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) has named its Pub of the Season.
The Freemasons Arm in Droitwich, has been awarded the title after being brought back from the brink.
The pub on Bromsgrove Road stood closed and unloved for three years until new licensee Derek Yeomans stepped up and decided to take it over.
Derek breathed new life back into the venue, which was not easy as he had to re-establish the cellar, reconnect the gas and electricity and repair damage caused by burst pipes.
The pub had to then be cleaned and redecorated from top to bottom.
The pub eventually reopened in October 2024 and has been a welcome addition to the growing real ale scene in Droitwich.
The Freemasons serves two regular Purity beers, two further guest ales and two ciders, as well as the usual selection of drinks and snacks.
BRD CAMRA said: “This great community pub has men’s and women’s darts teams as well as a pool table.”
“Derek, a chartered accountant by trade, has long been a champion of real ale and said he was shocked but delighted to receive this award which is given to acknowledge pubs that go out of their way to promote and champion real ale – I’m sure there will be many more such awards to follow.”
