A GORNAL pub has been voted the best brew pub in the West Midlands by beer lovers.

The Jolly Crispin, based on Clarence Street, Upper Gornal, is home to the Fownes Brewing Co, who have brewed their award-winning ales there since 2012.

The pub, which dates back to the 1840s, was awarded the accolade from Rate Beer, a site which rates beer all of the world.

The Fownes Brewery is run by Sedgley brothers James and Tom Fownes, while the pub is run by landlord Robin Carey.

The pair have won plaudits for their fantasy themed brews, including the Crispin's house bitter, Ommer.

James explained: "The award was very unexpected. It’s great to know that all of the hard work we put in to producing our hand crafted ales and the consistent effort by Rob in running the pub is recognised and appreciated by the customers."

Tom said: "You’ll usually find a couple of beers on the bar, many of which have won awards within the Midlands over the years."

Landlord Rob added: "Here in the Black Country with it’s brewing heritage there’s a lot of brew pubs so being recognised as the best is quite an accolade.

"We regularly get beer tourists from around the country coming to the pub and we’ve obviously made a good impression."

The team will be celebrating their success with a presentation and wide selection of ales on March 30.