A pub which ditched the screens for a friendly atmosphere where locals could chat has been voted the best district pub of 2023.

The Cock in Dereham is celebrating the win after being told by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) that members of Norwich and District CAMRA voted it the winner.

The pub was opened by Jane Howard and Steve Garner in January 2020 with the goal to create an environment fit for real ale and conversations, rather than screens or machines.

Dereham Times: Steve Garner, who runs The Cock in Dereham with Jane Howard Steve Garner, who runs The Cock in Dereham with Jane Howard (Image: Archant)

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The pub was forced to close just two months after opening, due to the pandemic, but has become a well-established local for ale lovers, with live music featuring every Sunday.

Speaking on the win, Mr Garner said: “This is not only welcome and important it’s also extremely satisfying to see our original plans coming to fruition. 

“We’re grateful to our staff who manage our cellar and pumps extremely well so that every pint is served fresh and with a smile.”

The Norwich Street pub has welcomed everyone to their award presentation on April 8 at 2pm.

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Dereham Times: A new hanging sign has been unveiled at The Cock in DerehamA new hanging sign has been unveiled at The Cock in Dereham (Image: Colin Collis)