The Red Lion in Overton has been shortlisted for the Basingstoke Gazette’s Pub of the Year award.
The family-run pub announced the news on Thursday morning, describing the nomination as a completely unexpected surprise.
Customers will have the opportunity to vote for The Red Lion by picking up a copy of the Basingstoke Gazette on either November 19 or November 26, completing the voting coupon and sending it to the newspaper. Alternatively, customers can take their completed coupon into the pub, where the team has offered to cover the postage.
The pub’s owners say running a small, independent free house comes with its fair share of challenges, from rising operating costs and ongoing repairs to its 300-year-old building to the everyday demands of looking after its customers.
As a family business operating without the backing of a brewery or pub company, the team says it remains committed to overcoming those challenges and providing a welcoming place for the community.
The Red Lion has also played an active role in supporting local causes over the years, helping to raise hundreds of pounds for community initiatives.
In August, the pub hosted Overton Radio’s Carpark Fest, which raised £535, shared between Overton Radio and Test Valley Men’s Shed.