A WREXHAM pub has won an acclaimed pub of the year award.

The Boat Inn, in Erbistock, has been crowned 'new pub of the year' in the Good Pub Guide's 2021 awards.

It is some welcome news for the establishment, with the Good Pub Guide warning that the industry faces its "darkest moments" amid continued restrictions, lockdowns, closures and job losses.

The publication has asked if it could be the end of the great British pub.

Fiona Stapley, of the Good Pub Guide, said: “Despite being battle-weary and worried sick about keeping their businesses up and running, I am pleased to say that these plucky, extraordinary people retain a teeny spark of hope.

“All know that the road into 2021, or until a vaccine is widely available, is going to be frighteningly rocky, but they do believe that if they are able to pull together with loyal customers, local suppliers, a helpful bank and a great deal of energy and luck, many will survive.

“But it is imperative that we support them because the British pub is special. It is the beating heart and focal point of countless communities, where customers from all walks of life come together and where you can be sure of a warm welcome, a frothing pint and a friendly smile.”

The British Beer and Pub Association said sales across all pubs in the UK last weekend were 84% lower than last year, with fewer than half opening.

The trade association said the “stark” number showed how much of an impact the new tier restrictions were having on pubs’ ability to operate as viable businesses this Christmas.

Chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “These numbers illustrate the perilous situation our pubs find themselves in this Christmas.

“The tier restrictions that have been unfairly placed on our pubs are killing them. This must change, or thousands of pubs simply won’t survive.”