A PRUDHOE pub has reached the final of a national competition.

The Falcon, on Eastwood Terrace, is a finalist in the Great British Pub Awards 2021.

Lauren Rutherford, Assistant Manager, said: "The whole Falcon team feels honoured to have made it to the finals for this award.

"It has been an extremely worrying few years for everyone and to be in the final six for Pub of the Year honestly just makes all of the hard work everyone has put in all the more worth it.

"This award shows the support of our customers who remained loyal to us over the past two years and we could not be more grateful to them."

The Falcon will host a party with live music, special drinks and a free buffet on September 28 from 9.00pm where the final will be live-streamed.

Northumberland County Councillor Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South, said: “This is fabulous news!  The Falcon is an exceptionally well run, family pub at the heart of the community.

“Great food and drink and service - you always receive a great welcome with a smile.

“I wish the team all the best in the final.”

Thousands of pubs across the country were shortlisted for the prestigious accolade and after two rounds of judging, the popular pub, restaurant and carvery is one of just six to progress to the next stage.

Ms Rutherford continued: "Our team has worked under so many different changing restrictions and having worked in the industry for many years the change in the social aspect of working in a pub was heartbreaking.

"Thank you to everyone who loves and supports The Falcon as much as we do we wouldn't be where we are today without you, we have the upmost appreciation for each and everyone of you.

"Thank you to our amazing staff team also, you have worked so hard providing the best of food and service and going that extra mile every single time and that is what has helped to put us in the final six.

"We would of course be honoured to win the pub of the year award however we also wish the other five pubs the best of luck. Thank you to everyone, the hospitality industry is thriving again and it's just so heartwarming to be a part of that."