Shadingfield pub celebrates winning prestigious CAMRA award
The Shadingfield Fox. Byline: Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2018 - Credit: Sonya Duncan
A Suffolk pub is raising a toast and celebrating after being named the best pub in the area.
Landlord Matt Mills at The Shadingfield Fox. Byline: Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2018 - Credit: Sonya Duncan
The Shadingfield Fox, in London Road, Shadingfield, has been crowned Pub of the Year for North and East Suffolk by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
The pub is now in the running to be named East Anglian Pub of the Year and, if successful, could also be given the title of the nation’s best pub.
Matt Mills, who has served as landlord for 11 years, spoke of the excitement upon hearing the news.
He said: “It’s an achievement and a half. In 2014 CAMRA named us Rural Suffolk Pub of the Year and this is a step up from that.
Landlord Matt Mills at The Shadingfield Fox . Byline: Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2018 - Credit: Sonya Duncan
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“The pub has always had a reputation of a place where people meet up – I call it a destination pub.”
The landlord believes the secret to the pub’s success can be found in its varied and ever-changing selection of ales and beers it has on tap.
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He said: “We put on 10 ales and people just love coming in for them.
“I put on a nice selection of beer and listen to what my customers want. Sometimes they ask for a dark ale or a golden ale and I try my best to get what they want as well as introducing beers I think they will enjoy.
Landlord Matt Mills at The Shadingfield Fox. Byline: Sonya Duncan Copyright: Archant 2018 - Credit: Sonya Duncan
“The pub is clean, tidy and welcoming. I also think staff knowledge is important. I make sure my staff are trained up and know the beers.
“It’s important for them to know what is on and what to recommend.
“People know that when they come here we will have 10 beers on and you get that warm welcoming feeling when you step through the door.”
Mr Mills said news of the victory had been well-received among staff and regulars alike.
He said: “Our customers are over the moon. The news has gone down a storm, the locals are really pleased.
“It’s a great local pub supported by the locals.”
Mr Mills added: “I just want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me.
“I’m lucky to get to play with the beers I enjoy and it’s down to their support we won the award.”
