A Nottingham pub has been recognised as a regional champion and for delivering the best customer experience in the East Midlands.

Punch Taverns, the largest pub company in the UK, have rewarded Larwood and Voce, Trent Bridge with a 2008 Shine Award – which commends those truly exceptional pubs from its 8,400 strong estate.

Licensee John Molner of The Moleface Pub Company won the ‘Best Customer Experience’ category and was also named overall Regional Champion.  He and his team were presented with the award at a prestigious ceremony earlier this week at the Lakeside in Nottingham.

The Larwood and Voce fought off tough competition from 12 other regional finalists who had been short listed from over a 1000 pubs, nominated from all over the UK.

The judges praised the Larwood & Voce for their ‘outstanding use of promotional tools’ and for ‘maximising every business opportunity’.

Punch’s regional operations director Jo Wade commented: “What a fantastic event and a great opportunity to recognise these truly outstanding pubs.  We received over 80 nominations in this region so to be crowned category winners is an exceptional achievement – well done!”

And licensee John Molner commented on the accolade: “It’s good to get recognised for what we’re doing. It’s all down to the way we train our staff.  We are only as good as our staff, if they know that they are serving a great product it shows through to the customer.”

As well as their trophy, John also receives 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.