A Kenilworth pub has been recognised as a regional champion and for delivering the best food to customers in Warwickshire.

Punch Taverns, the largest pub company in the UK, have rewarded The Cross, Kenilworth with a 2008 Shine Award – which commends those truly exceptional pubs from its 8,400 strong estate.

Licensee Tony Day won the ‘Best Food Experience Category’ and was also named overall Regional Champion. He was presented with his award at a prestigious ceremony earlier this week at Kilworth House in Leicestershire attended by celebrity guests – footballer Lee Sharpe and cricketer Ashley Giles.

The Cross fought off tough competition from twelve other regional finalists who had been short listed from over a 1000 pubs, nominated from all over the UK.

The judges gave particular praise to the Cross’s ‘excellent food and menu’ and ‘high standards in the restaurant’.
 
Punch’s regional operations director Alan Kennedy commented: “What a fantastic event and a great opportunity to recognise these truly outstanding pubs.  We received over 100 nominations in this region so to be crowned category winners is an exceptional achievement – well done!”

And licensee Tony Day is delighted with the accolade: “I was so shocked to win the over all prize, there are 800 pubs in this region and to come first is a fantastic achievement for us all. It is great to be recognised, but to win is an honour. “

As well as the trophy, Tony also received a £500 gift experience voucher and will join the other Regional Champions at a prestigious Champions Dinner event taking place on 21st May at Hampton Court Palace in London.