Pub of the year in capital for first time

A pub in London's bustling Covent Garden has become the first in the capital to be named national pub of the year.

The Campaign for Real Ale gave the accolade to The Harp, described as a "small, friendly, independent free house which has become a haven for beer choice".

The pub was described as a "true gem" serving eight real ales and a selection of real ciders.

Runners-up were Taps in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire; the Beacon Hotel in Sedgley, West Midlands; and Salutation Inn, in Ham, Gloucestershire.