Rutland CAMRA has awarded certificates to pubs across the county to recognise their community work during the pandemic and the quality ales they serve.

Jon Whowell, branch chairman of Rutland CAMRA, said on Facebook that it was necessary for pubs to obey the Tier guidance for Rutland to improve its Tier status.

Rutland is in Tier 2, where pubs can open but customers must buy a 'substantial meal' but the county is surrounded by areas in Tier 3, where pubs remain closed.

Mr Whowell said: "Our hearts go out to those Pubs and businesses that will suffer."

He continued: "Branch members have nominated a number of Pubs in Rutland that have supplied Real Ale drinkers with quality beers and for being a major part of their Community during the Covid-19 lockdown periods of 2020. And we thank them for keeping us going."

The pubs due to receive a certificate are:

Empingham Cricket & Sports Club

Wheatsheaf, Langham

Plough, Greetham

Exeter Arms, Barrowden

White Lion, Whissendine

The Jolly Brewer in Stamford was also selected despite it not being in Rutland but it led the way in supplying take away beer immediately after the first lockdown was announced

Jon continued: "The Branch also wanted to recognise the valuable work done by our local breweries, as you can't have a Pub without beer, and so Baker's Dozen, Ketton and The Grainstore Brewery, Oakham will receive an award in our usual quality frames !

"It is hoped that these will be presented in a socially distanced manner as soon as lockdown reverts into tier 2.[Which was Tuesday]"

He added: "Please, please, comply with advice and obey the Pub's rules also please respect the investment these Pubs and Breweries have made to keep us safe and sane."

In another update this week, Rutland CAMRA also announced Pub of The Season Summer 2020 has been awarded to The Grainstore, Oakham.

Pub of The Season Autumn 2020 has been awarded to The Green Dragon, Ryhall.

Rutland CAMRA members are urged to continue to vote for Pubs on Whatpub.com