MORE pubs in and around York are in the running for top prestigious awards, as The Press looks to acknowledge the best watering holes in our region.

The Press Pub Awards 2009/10 will celebrate the industry’s best locals and landlords, as the trade looks to defy the doom and gloom of the recession.

Nominations have been pouring in since we launched the awards late last year.

Among the latest is the Tam O’Shanter pub, in Lawrence Street, York, which was selected by John Taylor, who praised landlords Sarah Wharton and Bill Moore for preserving the “traditional-style pub” since their arrival 20 months ago.

Ms Wharton said: “It’s absolutely lovely to be nominated. We wanted to keep the pub traditional when we came in so people could come in to socialise and enjoy themselves like they should be able to do.”

The pair had no experience of the pub trade before taking the reins at the Tam O’Shanter, but now find themselves potential award winners.

The Red Lion Inn, in Knapton, near Norton, was nominated by Daniel Spence who reserved special praise for the food under landlady Annie Prescott.

Ms Prescott was previously the head chef at Melton’s restaurant in Scarcroft Road, York, before assuming control of the Red Lion.

She said: “This nomination is a result of a team effort.

“Although we are a village pub we do pride ourselves on good food at good value, which is important during these times.” Also nominated is The Ackhorne in St Martin’s Lane, off Micklegate, in York, which has been put forward by Rachel Mutters.

She referred to its “sense of community and homeliness” as the reason why the Ackhorne has a special atmosphere. Manager Helen Fisher said: “It’s just nice to be appreciated.

“We do make an effort to make our customers feel welcome, so this is very special for us. My husband and I moved here two years ago from Lincoln and just absolutely fell in love with The Ackhorne.” There is still plenty of time to get your votes in for the awards, for any one or more of the categories listed here.

To make a nomination, complete the entry form on this page or email gavin.aitchison@thepress.co.uk – make sure you include your name and contact details (phone or email) as well as the name of the pub you are nominating, and your reasons.

The awards are open to all pubs in the circulation area of The Press. Usual rules and conditions apply.

The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

York Press: Pub Awards categories