A FLINTSHIRE pub is celebrating after being crowned the Marstons Pub of the Year.

The Black Lion pub in Buckley has been run by Mark Thomas for the last two-and-a-half years.

The Marstons Pub of the Year prize was recently presented to staff at the pub.

Landlord Mark says that the award is the result of 'hard work and determination' from all involved at the Black Lion.

In a statement, he wrote: "We’re so pleased to announce that we won Marstons pub of the year here at The Black Lion. This goes to show the hard work and determination from every single member of our Team.

"Thank you all so much for your continued support. We are proud to be part of the Marstons Family. From our house to yours. We love you."

David Harris Area manager for Marstons added: "The Black Lion has stuck by the community and the community has stuck by Mark, Andy & The Team. This is what our company strive for.

"Our people make our pubs and I’m so proud of Mark for all his efforts in creating a hub for the Buckley community. He has created something very special with The Black Lion, something that everyone is proud of. Well done Mark and Thank you Buckley."

The Black Lion continued to show its community spirit on Remembrance Sunday too by offering a free drink to all ex-service and service personnel who visited the pub on the day.