A Lowestoft pub has hopped one step closer to being named as the best in the country.

In August, the Stanford Arms in Lowestoft discovered that it had been named as the best pub in East Anglia by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).However, at the time it had to wait to find out whether it would advance to the final four of CAMRA’s National Pub of the Year competition for the second consecutive year.

Now, the news owners David and Samantha Burd were waiting for has arrived, with the announcement that once again it has made the final four.

Mr Burd said: “We are delighted to be selected in the final four again - last year was a shock and we didn’t think we would get there again.

“Being in the final four last year has really put us on the map - it’s fantastic to get the recognition from CAMRA and a huge nudge in the right direction.”

While last year it narrowly missed out on the top accolade, the pair hope to go one better this year and claim the title.

Mr Burd added: “We strive to constantly improve and are currently moving towards being a good conversation pub by removing the jukebox and pool table.

“We are also trying to support local breweries by sourcing an even larger range of beer styles.”

Mr Burd, 53, who has been in charge of the pub on Stanford Street for five years, said his main motivation was to run a pub that he would enjoy drinking in himself.

Pubs in the competition are selected by CAMRA volunteers and judged on atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, community focus and the quality of beer.

Andrea Briers, CAMRA’s regional director for East Anglia said: “This back-street local pub has up to 12 real ales and ciders available and is well worth a visit.

“Well done to David and Samantha on their success.”

The pub will be presented with an award for reaching the final four on Saturday, November 25 at 1pm, but will have to wait until February to discover whether they have brought home the title.

Its competition comes from Wigan Central in Wigan, the Cricketers in St Helens, Merseryside and the Wavers Real Ale House in Kidderminster.