A FORMER school turned pub in Appleton Thorn has been named the best club in the country for the second time.

Appleton Thorn Village Hall has won CAMRA'S Club of the Year 2019, one of the most respected and well-known club awards in the UK.

The community hub in Stretton Road boasts a bar area, pool room, garden area, bowling green and an ever-changing range of seven beers from regional and micro-breweries.

Home cooked food is served on Sunday lunchtimes and the function room hosts quizzes, live music and an annual beer festival in October.

The recent addition of a gin bar has proved popular with the club’s members.

Chris Massey, steward of Appleton Thorn Village Hall said: "It is a huge honour to not only win the Club of the Year title once – but twice!

"We are a true community club and take pride in hosting a range of activities and events for our locals and serving great beers as well."

Keith Spencer, club of the year organiser said: "This club is the very hub of the community, from hosting pre-school events to yoga, dance, Guides and rehearsals for the Vale Royal String Orchestra!

"It is a very deserving winning of this year’s Club of the Year competition and a shining example of the intrinsic role that clubs can play in their areas."

Other finalists include the Real Ale Farm in Bargoed, the Canine Club in Accrington and the Egham United Services Club in Egham.