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The 'Tally' is named best community pub by CAMRA





The annual award, now in its seventh year, was introduced to celebrate the contribution that local pubs make to their community.
This year saw the highest number of nominations to date, with the Tally Ho! taking the award in a closely matched contest.
The award is a huge vote of confidence in the venture for, in 2012, the future seemed bleak for locals who wanted to continue enjoying a pint with neighbours, within walking distance.
They were dismayed when, in 2012, the ‘Tally’ was sold by brewing giants Wadworth.
The buyers, Acres Developments, sought planning permission to convert it into a terrace of three, three-bedroom homes.
However, planning permission was refused.
A convoluted battle followed but villagers, backed by the West Berkshire branch of CAMRA and Newbury MP Richard Benyon, prevailed, eventually buying the building back.
It is now owned by a consortium of villagers and other investors and run as community asset offering good food and real ales.
Tally Ho! Community Pub Ltd director Paula Woof said of the award: “It's the most wonderful seal of approval on all the hard work that the community has put into getting the pub back - and up and running.
“The encouragement we have had from CAMRA throughout has been part of our success."
Chairman of West Berkshire CAMRA, Richard Scullion, said: “One of CAMRA’s key campaigns is to support well-run pubs as the centre of community life.
“Their continued existence plays a critical social role in UK culture, and they are great places in which to consume real ale. Seeing the community rally to keep its pub in this way is an example to us all.”
He added: “A visit to the pub will not only demonstrate just how successful this venture had been, but what a warm and welcoming place it is.”



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