A Milton Keynes pub has been recognised as a Regional Champion and for delivering the best customer experience in the South West.

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

Licensee Andrew Coath won the ‘Best Customer Experience’ category and was also named overall Regional Champion.  He was presented with his awards at a prestigious ceremony earlier this week at the MacDonald Randolph Hotel, Oxford.

The Swan 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 Swan for being: ‘a really classy operation – excellent in every aspect.’
 
Punch’s regional operations director Ian Marchant commented: “What a fantastic event and a great opportunity to recognise these truly outstanding pubs.  We received over 120 nominations in this region so to be crowned category winner is an exceptional achievement – well done!”

And licensee Andrew Coath is delighted with the accolade: “I’m absolutely gobsmacked! I was a Shine Award finalist in 2006 and never dreamed I’d get to come back.  The quality of pubs and operators is extremely high and I honestly didn’t think I had a chance, so to actually win is fantastic!”

Andrew adds: “I also won the Hotel and Caterer ‘Best Place to Work’ Award on the same day so I’ve had the best of weeks!”

As well as their trophy, Andrew 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.