Coventry pub, Old Clarence has been named runner up in a national competition to find the pub with the biggest heart. The pub on Earlsdon Avenue North, beat off stiff competition across parent company Stonegate Pub Company’s 625 pub estate to become runner up in its 2013 Heart of the Community Award.

As reward for the win the pub received £1000 to be donated to the charities of its choice. General Manager Paul Murphy has selected four charities, each with close links or meaning to the pub and its customers. The charities – Great Ormond Street Hospital’s Children’s Charity, Red Cross’ Typhoon Haiyan Relief Appeal, CRASAC (Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre) and Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air ambulance Service will each receive £250.

The award recognises the important role the Old Clarence plays in its community, providing a hub for locals to come together and a centre for charitable fundraising. Commenting on the award General Manager Paul Murphy said, “It’s wonderful to receive this accolade and particularly to be able to donate our winnings to four charities that mean a great deal to the customers and staff at the Old Clarence. Over the last year we have hosted numerous events and co-ordinated fundraising challenges for charity, from bungee jumps and talent contests to street parties and fun days, always with immense support from our customers. With Christmas approaching it’s particularly important to remember and support those in need and we hope these donations will do that.”

Congratulating Paul and his team, Toby Smith, CEO of Stonegate Pub Company said, “Well done to Paul and the team at the Old Clarence. It’s pubs like the Old Clarence that show us just how important the local pub is within its community. We’re proud of the role the Old Clarence and so many of our pubs play in building and maintaining strong community spirit and wish them luck with their charitable fundraising plans for 2014.”