Comic Rob Brydon, Shepherd Neame retail director Nigel Bunting, retail operations manager Graeme Endacott and Andrew Reed of category sponsor International Wine Challenge

Shepherd Neame is toasting a national pub accolade.

The 300-year old Faversham brewer and pub owner beat off stiff competition to be named Best Managed Pub Company with between two and 50 sites.

Its managed estate covers 46 hotels, pubs, and inns in a range of town, village, coastal and London locations.

Judges of The Publican Awards 2013 said it was “a highly successful managed retail estate, which has shown strong innovation and performance in the last year.”

After the presentation, hosted by comedian Rob Brydon in London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, chief executive Jonathan Neame said:

“I would like to congratulate our managed estate team for an outstanding win in a highly competitive field.

"It is their dedication and hard work which has been recognised by industry professionals, who were impressed with our attention to detail and enthusiasm.”

The brewery has enhanced its food development team, training and customer service across its managed estate, and investing heavily in accommodation and catering facilities.

Judging involved announced and mystery site visits, and interviews by industry experts, City analysts and journalists.