The Lower Red Lion – which dates back to the 17th Century – has been won the title of Most Festive Pub of the Year in St Albans.

The historic coaching inn, in Fishpool Street, beat off intense competition to scoop the annual award.

Judges were impressed by its festive lights, imaginative decorations and cracking ambience as well as its outstanding customer service.

The Boot, in Market Place, took the runner’s up spot in the contest that was organised by St Albans City and District Council and sponsored by the St Albans Review.

David Worcester, landlord of the Lower Red Lion, said: “I’m very happy to have won as we do try to make the place special for Christmas.

“I’ve won it twice before in two different pubs, so this is a hat-trick. However, most of the credit has to go to two of my staff, Nicola Robinson and Julia O’Neill, who did such an excellent job with the decoration.”

The winner was presented with a certificate and a glass trophy to show off to their customers.

Residents were asked to nominate the most festive pub in a competition designed to bring extra sparkle to the City during the Christmas period.

Among the other establishments that received strong backing were The White Swan, The Garibaldi, The Great Northern, The Portland Arms, The Farmer’s Boy and The Plough at Sleapshyde.

The judging panel visited nominated pubs to see first-hand the efforts they have made to mark the festive season before deciding on the winner. They assessed such key factors as the decorations, drinks selection and general atmosphere.

Among the judges were Eric Roberts of the St Albans Civic Society and Councillors Roma Mills and Chris White

Cllr Mills said: “Congratulations to the winner and the runner up as well as all the other pubs that were nominated. We were very impressed with the effort that our pubs have put into making Christmas extra special.

“It was difficult to choose a winner as the standard was so high, but we agreed that the Lower Red Lion really stood out this year.”

Last year’s winner was the Hare and Hounds, Sopwell Lane, with the Rose and Crown, St Michael’s Village, triumphing in 2016.