A NEWPORT pub has been named the Welsh Cider pub of the Year in a prestigious competition.

CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) awarded the title to the Bell Inn, Caerleon.

Welsh pubs which offer real cider - unpasteurised, unpressurised and made from whole fruit - were judged against a set of criteria.

This included atmosphere and decor, service and welcome, mix of clientele, good value and the quality of the real cider and perry.

The judges were particularly impressed by the range and quality of real cider and perry on offer at The Bell.

The pub, on Bulmore Road, will now go on to the final stages of the UK-wide competition for a chance to be named CAMRA's National Cider Pub of the Year in October.

Landlord Lee Taylor said the award was a great achievement.

He said the pub stocks at least 28 different types of cider and mainly use local cider producers.

CAMRA’s cider coordinator for Wales, Sarah Keable, said: "The Bell offers an outstanding range of cider and perry that can be savoured in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. This award is well deserved recognition for the care and attention the management team has paid to the provision of one of Britain's most traditional drinks."

The award will be presented to The Bell on July 2.