OTLEY'S inns have been thanked for providing a 'good old-fashioned welcome' to Victorian Fayre visitors.

Many of the town's pubs made a special effort again this year, in terms of decorating their premises and donning period costume, for the Elise Brumfitt Victorian Alehouse Award.

Run by Otley Pub Club, the competition awards prizes to those businesses who go the extra mile to enter into the atmosphere of the annual Fayre.

This year's winner was The Red Lion, on Kirkgate, which had a Victorian styled violin group playing to entertain customers on Sunday, December 3.

Otley Pub Club Secretary Bob Brook said: "As usual the standards were high, the costumes were fabulous and the effort that had gone into making the fayre a special day, both inside the pubs and out, was clear to see.

"It’s a really difficult job having to choose one pub over the rest, as none of those that take part deserve to be anything but winners.

"So we try to look for something that’s just a bit different that might tip the balance.

"Last year that was a Santa’s grotto at The Whitakers and this year it was their next door neighbours, The Red Lion, who caught our eye with their ‘Victorian’ violin band!

"The Whitakers’ new team almost lived up to last year’s efforts, with their outfits and special Yorkshire recipe pies earning them second place, and The Old Cock’s usual, superb costumes again kept them in the top three.

"The Bowling Green was also highly commended for kitting out all their bar and serving staff in suitable gear, in a pub crammed with Christmas decorations.

"Honourable mentions must go to The Black Horse, for its costumes and a cosy fireplace scene, and to North Bar Social for its splendid outfits."

He added: "I must thank all the pubs that took part for adding to the Victorian ambience in the town on another hugely successful Fayre day."