Top award for Yorkshire pub landlords

The landlords of a North Yorkshire pub are raising a pint to scooping the title Licensee of the Year yesterday.

Kelly and Ashley McCarthy, who have run the Ye Olde Sun Inn at Colton, near Tadcaster, since 2004, became the first Yorkshire hosts for more than a decade to win the accolade at the British Institute of Innkeeping Awards.

They faced a gruelling round of Q&As, site inspections and an “Apprentice-style” day of interviews before a panel of nine experts.

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The couple, who have worked together in the trade for more than 20 years, say the secrets of their success include their use of innovative food using local produce, as well as regular cookery demonstrations, food workshops and charity nights.

Chef Ashley McCarthy said: “It’s a fantastic achievement to be recognised by your peers as doing a good job. We’ve worked incredibly hard over the last nine years to get here, but it’s not just our name on the trophy, it’s our whole team and the whole of Yorkshire – it’s incredible to feel we’re representing such a wonderful county.

“We know our customers’ names – they’re not just a number – and it’s that personal touch that makes all the difference.”

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “Kelly and Ashley are a real credit to the industry. Their hard work and passion shine through and they’ve done Yorkshire proud with this amazing achievement.”