STAFF at a historic pub have raised a pint to celebrate landing a sought-after spot in a national real ale guide.

The Black Lion pub, which is Epping's oldest, has been chosen by members of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) to appear in the 2013 Good Beer Guide.

The High Street business is the town's oldest surviving timber-frame building and owners claim it was frequented by notorious highwayman Dick Turpin.

Manager Steve Alderson, 56, said he had been working to promote real ale among his punters since taking up the post two years ago.

He added: "With real ale, it's about building confidence. Real ale, being what it is, can be a bit cloudy because it's a live product.

"People sometimes say 'this ain't quite right Steve'. Then they realise everyone else its drinking it.

"This is the first time for a long time the pub's been in it. It's a real achievement."

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