A Dumbarton pub is celebrating after being crowned the best in West Dunbartonshire by the National Pub and Bar Awards.

The Clipper on High Street has been named as one of 94 individual county winners across the UK judged on criteria such as investment in the business, staff training, menus, events, technology and marketing.

Pubs can either put themselves forward to be considered or as in the Clipper’s case are put forward for shortlisting following research by the award’s organisers.

Gary Melville, the pub’s general manager, told the Reporter he believes the establishment owes its success to their range of live artists and events, fantastic cocktails, exciting food and of course the hard work of his team.

He said: “It’s fantastic feedback to hear we have been named as the best in West Dunbartonshire.

“It’s a great achievement and there are some fantastic things happening here over the next few months and we are really excited to share that with everyone.

“We are where we want to be now and having this recognition from a national level is a credit to all the hard work and dedication of our team.”

Read more: Dumbarton pub named in ale guide

The pub’s staff will now have the opportunity to attend the grand final in London on May 22, hosted by restaurant critic Jay Rayner, where 15 Regional Winners will be announced along with the overall National Pub and Bar of the Year.

Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which hosts the event said: “Selecting this year’s 94 County Winners has been nothing short of inspiring.

“From idyllic countryside pubs to inner city cocktail bars, this is the most eclectic and exciting industry in the world.”

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