Britain's Oldest Brewer Honoured For Outstanding COVID Response

It is the 12th year of the awards, organised by the KM Media Group, publisher of KentOnline, and Kent County Council.

The results were announced on Wednesday (October 20), and judges praised Shepherd Neame’s response to the pandemic, writing: "They were there the whole way through, stopping the rent, putting in buddy systems for their staff, focusing on mental health, diversifying their pubs, supporting local charities and fighting for the whole sector on a national platform. Shepherd Neame went above and beyond the things they had to do and ensured that all their staff and customers were looked after as well as they could be in such a difficult climate."

Shepherd Neame was also one of four finalists in the Family Business of the Year category.

Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We are delighted to receive this special award. This honour is great recognition for our fantastic team members, who have shown great spirit, great dedication to the company, and have been a great support to each other in these challenging times.”