A SUFFOLK pub is celebrating after being crowned the best in the country at serving cask-conditioned “real” ale. The Dove Street Inn, on the corner of St Helens Street and Dove Street in Ipswich, scooped the Abbott Ale Cask Pub of the Year title The Publican magazine's annual Food and Drink Awards.

A SUFFOLK pub is celebrating after being crowned the best in the country at serving cask-conditioned “real” ale.

The Dove Street Inn, on the corner of St Helens Street and Dove Street in Ipswich, scooped the Abbott Ale Cask Pub of the Year title The Publican magazine's annual Food and Drink Awards.

Landlords Ady Smith and Karen Beaumont, who were shortlisted together with thee other pubs from around the country, were praised for their devotion to cask beer and the excellent range of 12 cask hand pulls on offer.

It is the latest in a long line of successes for the pub, which has been recognised for its quality with a string of local and national best pub awards and also well known locally for hosting successful beer festivals.

Mr Smith said: “It is nice to be recognised within the trade as being one of the champions of cask ale. It is testament to the team.

“Cask ale is the mainstay of our business which is very rare in this day and age. I'm really pleased.”

Steve Magnall, brewing and distribution director at sponsor Greene King, said: “Hearty congratulations to The Dove.

“Of all the fantastic cask pubs across the country, to be recognised as the best is a marvellous accolade and a wonderful tribute to Karen, Ady and their team.

“Cask beer or real ale is the best drink in the world when served in good condition.

“It's a fresh product made with wholesome natural ingredients and the team at The Dove put lots of energy into making every pint perfect.”