THE people responsible for running some of the county's favourite pubs are clinking their glasses celebrating winning Pub Company of the Year.

The Greene King company runs pubs including the Saracens Head, Amersham; the Red Cow, Wooburn Green; the Horse and Groom, Penn, and the Squirrel pub, High Wycombe.

The title was awarded to the company last month and Greene King was commended on its commitment, high standards, innovative approach to community and its traditional pubs.

David Elliott, managing director, said: "Our trade is built on relations with local communities. Where we score high is in recognising that quality is just as important in village and local town pubs as in huge city centre themed bars."

Judging for the competition took place over six-month periods and included mystery visits to the pubs, presentations and rigorous cross-questioning.