WE'RE highlighting the shortlisted pubs in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over the following issues.

The Royal Oak has been nominated by News & Star readers as one of the ten finalists in its 'Best Pub 2024' award.

The pub, which is located in Scotby, is owned by Louise McPhee, who took over at the Oak in 2019.

After being informed that The Royal Oak has been nominated as a finalist in the News & Star's 'Best Pub 2024' award, Louise was on hand to express her delight. 

She said: "It's ace, it's so cool.

"It's so lovely, it means everything that our customers appreciate the hard work that goes into the pub and appreciate everything that we do.

Louise also discussed her belief that it is The Royal Oak's consistency that has made it a staple in Scotby.

She said: "It's the best pub this side of Shap, obviously that's the first thing.

"It is a home away from home, it is the heart of the community, it is a place where people can come where they will be safe, they feel good, the food is amazing and there is good hospitality.

"We are very consistent which is really important, the food has always been similar and when you come you know what to expect.

"We have also got a fabulous team, I am nothing without my team, we support local young people from the village and there is something for everybody."

For Louise, The Royal Oak is a beacon in the community and she expressed her pride that it plays such an important role in the community and the lives of its regulars.

She said: "Our customers and our regulars are more than just my neighbours they are my friends.

"It is a safe place, that is the key and that is what is important.

"It is a meeting place, it is a wedding place, it is a funeral place and the pub does its job and keeps doing it job consistently.