THE landlords of a Hampshire country pub are celebrating after it was commended at the “rural Oscars”.

The Hanger Free House, in Oakhanger, Bordon, received a highly commended award from the Countryside Alliance Awards.

Landlords Clare and Francis Joyce wanted to thank their customers for all of their support in the competition.

Hampshire Chronicle: Clare and Francis JoyceClare and Francis Joyce (Image: The Hanger Freehouse)

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Clare told the Chronicle: “Anything that you are voted for by your locals and regulars are always lovely, especially as you get the award for your regular work, not just a one-off experience.

“It is lovely to have so much support behind us. It was a great boost for us and the team, and we are hopeful that this will get us some more business behind us.”

Clare went on to say that the community had welcomed her and Francis after they took over the pub 18 months ago. She continued: “We have only been here 18 months or so, so a big thank you to everyone who comes to us.

“We have felt very welcome. We want to be a destination dining pub, but we also want to be a local pub as well. We recently feel like we have managed that as well as being a destination people can drive to.

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“We will continue doing what we are doing.”

Sarah Lee, director of policy at the Countryside Alliance, said: “We are proud to be honouring these exceptional rural businesses in the South East, and the people behind them who are passionate about providing quality goods, services, and employment to rural communities and beyond.

“Running a business in a rural community isn’t easy, and it’s so important to celebrate the valued role these rural enterprises have in their communities. We look forward to seeing them in London at the national champions reception!”