Chris has cause to celebrate
Staff and regulars at Hednesford pub the Cross Keys are raising a glass after it scooped the Campaign for Real Ale Walsall branch Staffordshire Pub of the Year award.
Cross Keys on Hill Street, a former coaching house built in 1764, is a listed building run by licensee Chris Brindley.
Mick McDevitt, for Walsall Camra, said: "Traditional ale can be enjoyed in a convivial atmosphere, either in the lounge bar, which is adorned with photographs of old Hednesford, while the more basic bar is decorated on a sporting theme." Mr Brindley, aged 39, is now in his 12th year at the Cross Keys and enjoys loyal support from his regulars.
He said: "I'm very happy about the award. I put on a lot of guest ales and invest a large amount of time in running the pub. I would describe it as a good old local."
The runners-up, the Ivy House Pub, Stafford Road, Great Wyrley, and the Stumble Inn, Walsall Road, Bridgtown.
