The Swan at Compton landlord wins prestigious award

Pub landlord Kenneth Shaw has won the New Licensee of the Year award at the industry’s national Night of Excellence Awards.

Mr Shaw won the award for his transformation of The Swan pub at Compton – previously The Foinavon – which he took over in 2023.

Judges commended Mr Shaw and his staff for transforming the pub in such a short time, one which boasts great pub food, quality beer and fantastic service.

Speaking about his win, Mr Shaw said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have won this award.

“I still feel the very best is yet to come from us at The Swan.

“Maybe we’ll be back in a few more years to pick up more awards.

“I’m excited for the future of the pub and look forward to welcoming more customers to the pub this year.”

This year’s awards were presented at a ceremony and dinner hosted at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire, for the second year in a row.

Greene King business development manager Wayne Farrell said: “A big well done to Kenneth and him team for winning this award.

“They deserve all the recognition and plaudits they get.

“Turning The Swan into the great local pub business it is now in the space of just one year is a massive achievement and speaks to the incredible experience Kenneth has.”

The ceremony was attended by more than 140 licensees from across the country who work with Greene King Pub Partners, as well as representatives from the hospitality and pub sector including trade bodies and business leaders.

The Night of Excellence Awards celebrate the success of licensees and the businesses they run in partnership with Greene King.

There are 14 awards up for grabs, which are all sponsored by suppliers and brands such as Molson Coors, Coca-Cola and Bacardi.