A BARNSLEY pub has been named as one of the top 16 venues in the country.

Gary Holmes, of Birdwell, runs Heaven and Ale which is based on Agnes Road.

The building which was once a chemist has been converted into a multi-room pub with an additional outside seating area.

It’s been hosting events which support local charities such as Barnsley Hospice and the Barnsley branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) described the venue as a ‘fantastic asset for the local community’.

Having been named the best pub in Barnsley at the CAMRA awards, the venue then went onto win the Yorkshire section and has been named in the top 16 pubs in the country.

Gary said: “It’s totally amazing.

“When you set out on a business adventure you never expect anything like this to happen.

“It’s a massive team effort.

“It’s the people who make the pub and the clientele who come in really make it what it is.

“I’m gobsmacked.”