A PUB staff member has been given a prestigious award.

The George Townhouse, Shipston-on-Stour, has announced that staff member Ali Wilson, has been named ‘Barista of the Year 2017’ by brewer and pub operator Brakspear, held across the company in partnership with coffee supplier, Paddy and Scott’s.

Mr Wilson and his general manager Pete Nicholas, win a trip to Monaco to visit the Conti Espresso coffee machine factory.

Mr Wilson took the top prize after impressing judges at the finals of the contest, where coffee champions from five pubs competed in three stages.

Contestants took on a ‘three drink order’, making three different coffees in three minutes; a quiz testing knowledge on coffee and on Paddy and Scott’s, and finally a signature drink.

Mr Wilson’s winning coffee was ‘Half a Pint of Bitter’, a shaken mixture of espresso, hot water and a syrup made from honey, orange and ginger, topped with steamed milk and served in a half pint glass.

One of the judges, Emma Haines, account manager at Paddy and Scott’s, said: “Paddy & Scott’s are delighted to be working with Brakspear to provide excellent coffee, made by trained baristas.

“All the judges were thrilled to see such high standards from all entrants and some really inventive signature drinks.

"A huge well done to all involved.”