GLASSES are being raised to a Weymouth pub which has been voted the number one local.

The Royal Oak on Weymouth quayside has been named West Dorset Pub of the Year by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

The 600 members of the West Dorset branch vote for their favourite among the 258 licensed premises in the area.

And it’s not just a good pint they’re looking for – a warm welcome is just as important.

That’s said to be guaranteed at the Royal Oak.

General manager Keith Treggiden and assistant manager Jenna Wells collected the winning certificate at the Dorchester Beerex. The pub now competes at regional level and if successful, goes forward into the national contest.

CAMRA spokesman Michel Hooper-Immins said: “Members praised the outstanding choice and quality of the local real ales, bubbly assistant manager Jenna Wells and the warm atmosphere created by happy local customers.

“They applaud enterprising initiatives like ‘a pint and a pie’ and the tasting tray, consisting of three one-third pints, giving a taste of what’s available on the bar that day.”

He added: “I was surprised to see a jar of dog biscuits on the bar, but what a good idea to encourage dog walkers into the pub.”

CAMRA’S branch chairman Dave Harris added: “The Royal Oak has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere with great views across the harbour. The bar staff are attentive and helpful. Beers are always in good condition – what more do you want?”

The Royal Oak runs a reward scheme, which customers can sign up to on special nights, and then receive 20 per cent off every pint of real ale, as well as discounts on other drinks. The pub also held a ‘Meet the Brewer’ evening with the Dorset Brewing Company, so customers could meet the people behind the beers.

Mr Treggiden said: “It is a real honour to win this award, especially as we’ve only been trading for 18 months.

“We owe our success to our great staff team and to our loyal, local drinkers, who have supported us since day one and helped us to come up with the right selection of beers and ciders.

“During 2015, we’re planning to put on more special events for customers.”

Jenna Wells added: “This amazing award is another indication of how well the Royal Oak is doing – all our customers are so relaxed.”