THE team at the Noah’s Ark in Lurgashall is celebrating being listed among the best pubs in Britain in the newly released Good Pub Guide for 2017. Now in its 35th year, the independent guide book to pubs gave its stamp of approval after a full inspection of the pub, following a number of customer recommendations.

The Good Pub Guide said: “An inn since 1537, this old place is in a lovely spot overlooking the village green and cricket pitch. Inside, the simple, traditional bar, popular with locals, has a bustling atmosphere” as well as boasting “well regarded food”.

Licensee Amy Whitmore said: “It is fantastic for us to be recognised in this guide book.

“We love where we are situated and proud of our business being a central part of the community. This listing is a tribute to everyone who works in the pub.

“We have a huge amount of positive feedback from our customers and this accolade reflects the affection local people have for the pub.”

Greene King’s Pub Partners managing director Clive Chesser said: “This is a superbly-run business with licensees who have established the Noahs Ark as the best pub in its locality, so this listing is hugely well-deserved.”

•Also listed in the guide are The Lickfold Inn; The Duke of Cumberland Arms in Henley; The Red Lion, Fernhurst; Hollist Arms, Lodsworth; White Horse, Easebourne; The Mill at Shottermill, Crossways, Churt; The Wheatsheaf, Grayswood; Dog and Pheasant, Brook; Fox and Pelican, Grayshott; The Mulberry, The Swann and The Crown, all Chiddingfold; Merry Harriers, Hambledon; White Hart, Witley; The Mill at Elstead; Woolpack, Elstead; Stag on the River, Eashing.