GOOD beer and hearty laughter served up in equal measure have led to The Cricketers Arms being voted the best pub in town.

Tucked away down Peter Street by the side of St Thomas’s Church it has been voted the pride of St Helens by real ale enthusiasts from CAMRA.

And nobody can deny that since taking over 11 months ago postman Andy Evans, his wife Denise and mother-in-law and landlady Barbara Kenyon have done a first-class job.

“The pub was on the verge of being boarded-up but thankfully we’ve turned the trade round and regulars have shown us a lot of love in saving their pub,” said 41 year-old Andy.

He revealed how they secured a loan after an interview in which he told the bank manager he was an old hand in the pub trade.

“In reality none of us had ever pulled a pint!” admitted Andy.

“When we took over there were six keg beers on offer, now we have 19 different beers. I’m passionate about cask ale and the real ale scene in St Helens is the best it has ever been for choice, quality and value for money.

“The Cricketers is a heart of the community pub. Our customers range from 18 to 90 years and there’s constant laughter. It’s a cracking little pub and we have dedicated staff in Gavin Evans, Karen Yates, Mike Wilson, Faye Knowles.

“We also appreciate the help and advice given to us by Gary and Sean at George Wright’s Brewery, Daryl and Debbie at the Turk’s Head and James and Lorraine at the Phoenix.

“We are grateful to St Helens CAMRA and all who voted for us. We can hopefully live up to our title and have a host of ideas and events planned and will continue to support the cask ale suppliers and micro breweries.”