A small party of Fenland members set off to present their Pub of the Season Winter 24/25 certificate to the Nelson Butt, Spilsby. Prior to that there were other pubs to survey.

First on the list was the West Ashby Arms which had not been visited for many years; the pub reopened in July 2024 and had been tastefully redecorated and has a light airy interior within its various rooms. The landlord welcomed us and was pleased to supply the information for the survey. TT Landlord was the regular beer while two of the party sampled the coffee. Malcolm had voluntarily drawn the short straw and was driver for the day.

On then to Horncastle and the Black Swan which although open was in near gloom and the landlady did not appear, so a note was made of the beers - TT Landlord and Boltmaker and supposedly opening times and time to move on.

Next up the George & Dragon at Hagworthingham where more TT - Landlord and (a rarity in these parts) Golden Best, which was on good form. Once details obtained and beers supped it was on to Spilsby.

First a bite to eat from the local cafe takeaway then across the road to the Nelson Butt and a welcome from landlady Erica. The certificate for the favourite pub in in the Spilsby / Horncastle area (as voted by branch members) was presented by Chairman, Malcolm, to Erica and her daughter, fellow pub partner, Ellie-Mae. A round of applause from the packed pub followed as did pints of XB, TT Boltmaker and Speckled Hen. It became obvious why the Nelson Butt had been voted POTS, due to its popularity throughout. Following the photoshoot Fen folk went next door to the Red Lion for Salem EFB along with XB, the survey undertaken and the Grand National glimpsed on the TV.

Next port of call was the Bell at Halton Holegate, a lovely old country pub with low beams and Horncastle Ales Wicked Lady along with XXXB. The sun was still shining as some of the party headed for Mareham Le Fen and the Royal Oak where Batemans beers held sway with XB, Gold and 5G. All seemed in good form and the pub was busy with the serving of meals. A full day in the Wolds area which will hopefully encourage more Fenland members to be involved in these social events.