A COUNTY pub will fly the flag for East Lothian at a national ceremony to find Britain’s best pub and bar.

The Crown and Kitchen, East Linton, will represent the county as it bids to become the overall National Pub and Bar of the Year.

The National Pub and Bar Awards aim to put the finest on-trade businesses across the UK in the spotlight, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the hospitality industry.

This week saw the announcement of 94 county champions.

Billy Robertson, from the Bridge Street business, was delighted to be named the best in East Lothian.

He said: “It is a good day out, good for the staff, for morale and to finally get recognised for what we are doing here.”

The pubs, which have been selected on overall best practice across a number of operational categories, will be officially crowned at a red carpet celebration on May 22.

At the grand final, which is hosted by restaurant critic Jay Rayner, 15 regional winners will also be announced, as well as the top accolade – the overall National Pub & Bar of the Year.