GLASSES have been raised to a Worcester pub serving the best beer around.

The Worcester Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) branch awarded the Plough, in Fish Street, its pub of the year 2011 gong.

Runner-up was the Firefly in Lowesmoor, which has made its name as a popular real ale and cider drinkers’ pub.

Bill Ottaway, Camra spokesman, said that the difference between the two awards had been a single vote.

He said: “They are two very different pubs, with the Plough a bit more spit and sawdust and the Firefly contemporary.

“Every year we go through the process of making this award, but this year has been tough.

“The Plough has a good history of bringing ales to the bar.

“The Firefly has never had one of our awards before, and has come a long way.”