A pub on a picturesque stretch of Suffolk coast has won a national award for the quality of its wines.

The Anchor at Walberswick, near Southwold, has clinched the title of Wine Pub of the Year 2011 at the Drinking Out Excellence Awards.

Sponsored by Harpers Wine and Spirit Guide the award was given to the Anchor's owners Mark and Sophie Dorber for its fine range of 200 wines from around the world.

It is the first time the Anchor has won a national award since it was bought by the Dorbers in 2004 although it has featured in good pub and food guides.

Since taking over the pub the couple have spent �500,000 on turning it into a top destination for wine lovers who can enjoy a glass as they eat and take in the views of the coast.

Mr Dorber, who used to run a pub in Fulham, said: 'This is our first national award.

'Naturally we are all thrilled here to have won something we feel strongly about- the importance of good wine in life, love and pubs.

'It is a huge moment for a little pub on the east coast. The award will certainly be a spring board for us.

'Wine is one of life's great pleasures. We hope to carry on moulding refining and refilling the cup of human pleasure for some time to come.'

Mr Dorber thanked his staff and sommelier Helen Durridge for helping to win the award, which was handed out on January 24 in London.

Richard Siddle, editor of Harpers Wine and Spirit Guide said: 'This is a pub that typifies what a great pub is, combining fine, well-kept beers, with oodles of wines by-the-glass and magnificent grub, utilising local ingredients.

'This is a pub that makes you feel at home be it sipping a pint of beer, trying a glass of wine, or combining the two with a comfortable, warming dining experience."