A WALSHAW pub is in the running for a national award.

The Victoria, in Hall Street, is one of five pubs battling it out to take the top spot in the El Group category of the John Smith's Great British Pub Awards 2018 ­— affectionately known as the "Oscars of the pub industry".

The pub was nominated for the award in recognition of its commitment to the community, and the journey it has been on since relaunching in 2017.

Run by publicans Richard Moore and Lisa Wrigley The Victoria reopened earlier this year after £115,000 makeover.

The Victoria is also renowned for its involvement in the community, having close links to nearby Christ Church as well as regularly hosting meetings and events, from monthly craft and book clubs to weekly live entertainment nights and quizzes.

Mr Moore said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be nominated having taken over our first business in the last 18 months. Its very exciting."