THE AWARDS seemed to just keep pouring in for a Spreyton pub - which this week has been shortisted down to the final four of the National Pub of the Year 2008 by the Campaign for Real Ale.

The Tom Cobley Tavern previously won the prestigious accolade in 2006 and landlord Roger Cudlip said it would be a 'real coup' if they could win for a second time.

He told the Times: 'We have done really well. After winning it in two years ago we didn't expect to be put up again this year. It's nice to get such recognition for the work we do and its also good for the area — particularly as the pubs and the trade generally have been suffering.

'We have managed to buck the trend.

'I might be wrong but next year could be a bumper one for the area with many people choosing to have their holidays in this country rather than go abroad — which could only be good for tourism in the West Country.

'We are always looking for new ideas to improve our service and willing to listen to our customers. It's hard work running the pub but we keep on battling and I find you get out what you put in.'

The pub serves more than 20 ales served by both handpump and gravity, with the majority coming from small independent Westcountry breweries. It also prides itself on its simple homemade food.

His wife Carole, who runs the pub with Roger and prepares the food, said: 'We are very pleased about being shortlisted and I will be keeping my fingers crossed that we will win the title again this year.'

Both Roger and Carole thanked their staff, who they say are very much part of the pub's success.

Roger said: 'They do a tremendous job. Without our staff we would not be where we are today.'

The Tom Cobley Tavern is up against the Crown in Stockport, Greater Manchester; the Royal Oak, in Rusper, West Sussex and the Kelham Island Tavern in Sheffield — the national winner will be announced next month.

CAMRA's director of Pubs, Julian Hough, said: 'The final four pubs are of the highest standard in terms of quality and presentation, and to get this far after so many months of judging is a true testament to their efforts.'