The Nags Head in Malvern has been named Town Pub of the Year by The Good Pub Guide 2007.

The award is new for 2007 after the guide's editors noted that most town pubs were fairly grotty; smokey, somewhat shabby and very blokey'.

They felt town pubs have improved so much recently that there needed to be award for the category.

The judges said: "The Nags Head is a warm-hearted and interesting pub with good food, drink and service.

"It's the sort of place one hopes to find in every town but rarely does. They keep an astonishing range of 16 real ales on hand pump and changing guests available.

"They also offer a fine range of malt whiskies, Belgian beers and decent whiskies by the glass."

Manageress Nicola Abrams said: "To win a Good Pub Guide award is one of the biggest accolades you can get in the industry. It's a huge achievement."

She thinks one of the reasons the pub got the award was its use of local produce and beers and its efforts to give customers what they want.

"The pub is an extension of a lot of people's homes," she said. "We look after our customers."

Owner Duncan Ironmonger said: "The Nags Head is pleased to win this award, which shows the enthusiasm and dedication from the staff and the loyalty of our customers. Our aim is to make this the best Public House in Britain, Inn-keeping with tradition."

Last August, the pub was the first in the district to have its licensing hours extended under new laws, despite objections from local residents.

However, the extended hours are only used occasionally.

The Bear and Ragged Staff, Bransford, was named County Dining Pub of the Year for Worcestershire in this year's guide.