Norfolk’s first community-owned pub has been honoured with a prestigious award from the Queen.

The White Horse pub at Upton was presented with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service last Wednesday to the delight of its volunteers.

Director of the White Horse Development Trust, Peter Crook, said: “We are all delighted, it is the pinnacle of five years hard work. We took over the pub as it was on the verge of bankruptcy and now we’ve turned it around and have 27 people working here.

Eastern Daily Press: The White Horse at Upton which is a community pub business has been honoured with a 2018 Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, Richard Jewson presents the award to Peter Crook. Picture: Nick ButcherThe White Horse at Upton which is a community pub business has been honoured with a 2018 Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, Richard Jewson presents the award to Peter Crook. Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Archant)

“The pub and shop have given a whole new dimension to this rural village community and to have this recognition is a huge bonus for the large group of people who have contributed in so many ways. We are all extremely proud.”

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise outstanding work done in their communities.