The Woodman in Bridport voted CAMRA pub of the year

The Woodman on South Street in Bridport took the crown for Pub of the Year, awarded by the West Dorset Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch.

Pub landlord Darren Moore and his staff are no strangers to success this year, having also won the branch’s cider pub of the year competition and Wessex regional cider pub award. Their Wessex award meant that the pub was recognised as one of the best 16 cider pubs in the UK.

The Woodman was secretly judged by CAMRA volunteers and beat off stiff competition for other pubs in the area.

After claiming the award, Mr Moore said: “We are totally shocked, but of course very happy.

West Dorset CAMRA chairman Bruce Mead with Woodman landlord Darren Moore

“We would like to thank all the customers, suppliers, musicians, DJ’s and the staff that make the pub what it is.”

Mr Moore went on to thank the tremendous support West Dorset CAMRA has given the pub.

According to the branch of CAMRA, the Woodman is a ‘classic example’ of a friendly pub, with it’s ever-changing choice of four interesting cask ales complemented by a large range of traditional ciders. The pub also offers a bar area consisting of flagstone flooring with wooden settles flanking the walls and windows with a real fire as a focal point, as well a small garden and skittle alley. Staff were also praised for their knowledge of products, offering tastings upon request.

The award was presented by West Dorset CAMRA Chairman, Bruce Mead, at the recent Dorchester Beerex on Saturday, February 3 at the Dorchester Corn Exchange.

Mr Mead said: “Presenting CAMRA awards to Darren and his team at The Woodman has become a bit of a habit over the last 12 months.

“This award comes on top of their West Dorset and Wessex Regional Cider Pub of the Year awards and is thoroughly deserved. We wish them every success in the next round of the competition”.

The Woodman will now go forward to represent West Dorset in the regional final of the competition.