A very good turnout of West London branch members and pub regulars gathered on 23 April to celebrate both St. George’s Day and, more importantly, the presentation to the Cleveland Arms of their branch Pub of the Year first-place-equal winner’s certificate. The photo shows landlord John King (left) receiving the certificate from branch chairman Les Maggs. This award was the culmination of many years hard work by John and his team to turn the pub into a real ale gem; previously the Cleveland had won runner-up certificates but never until now the first prize. Les also thanked John for his help to CAMRA over the years and in particular for allowing his pub to be used as our main London Drinker magazine depot. Sadly, this night also coincided with John’s last night as landlord after ten years at the pub, which is now closing for a period.
Awards to the other first-place winner (the Harp, Covent Garden) and to third-place winner the Cask Pub & Kitchen, Pimlico, will be made later this year.
