Morpeth landlady praises customers after eighth pub of the year title

A LANDLADY paid tribute to her customers after Morpeth’s Tap and Spile pub was named the best in South East Northumberland for an eighth time.

Margo Boyle took over the Manchester Street boozer with husband Allan 21 years ago, but he died just seven months later.

Yet with the support of regulars the former Oxfordshire publican stayed on, and is now celebrating after being presented once again with Tyneside and Northumberland Camra’s local Pub of the Year prize.

“I’d like to thank the customers who come in daily to make this the pub it is, and I’d also to say thank you very much to all my staff because it’s a team effort,” said Margo.

“I also have to say that it’s an honour, and a privilege, that I’ve been given this again for another year, and I’m really really pleased and proud of it. Thank you.”

Ian Lee, the chairman of Tyneside Camra congratulated the pub – which is at the centre of the community, often playing host to local footballers and singing groups, with regulars taking turns to host the weekly quiz – for doing so well in a difficult economic climate.

“In this time of recession, to have a public house, full of locals, that serves excellent beer is a fantastic achievement,” he said.