Melbourne Village Voice April 2023

Pub of year cheer for The Spirit Vaults

IN JUST over two years since opening The Spirit Vaults in Melbourne has been awarded the highly sought-after accolade of Derby CAMRA country pub of the year

Joint owner Matt Morgan said: “We are very proud! We were runners-up last year, and this is one step further. It is really nice to get the recognition given the hard work all the team have put in. I am really happy!”

Asked what he thought had made the pub successful Matt said that it was about several elements – such as the consistent quality of the beer.

“This year we have seven real ales on offer, whereas last year it was four; the cleanliness, the food and the atmosphere all play a part

“It is about everything coming together, really,” he said, thanking everyone for their role contributing to the success

“Our customers, a mix of locals and occasional visitors all contribute to the great atmosphere in the pub,” he added, and that is one of the factors considered by the anonymous judges when they visit.

CAMRA has an intensive judging process with branch members visiting each pub and scoring them not just on the quality of the real ale but taking other things into account like the service and welcome, the atmosphere, style, décor, furnishings, cleanliness and community focus of the pub as well as a sympathy with CAMRA’s aims

To celebrate the achievement, head brewer Simon Morgan will be creating a new beer to mark the occasion and to thank CAMRA members for their support. Also, the pub is now ‘under new management’ with the appointment of Kate Freeman as manager. Without revealing too much Kate said she had already had some good ideas for themed events so “watch this space”.

With around 20 employees engaged in the business, the Spirit Vaults has certainly made a massive contribution to village life, and was mentioned, along with other establishments, in the recent article in the Sunday Times, showcasing the village as one of the best places to live in the Midlands.