The Wych Elm in Kingston has been crowned the winner of Fuller's pubs annual Glorious Gardens competition. 

The Glorious Gardens competition is a celebration of outdoor spaces and the care publicans have put into them.

As an extension of the pub itself, gardens attract customers throughout the year for a range of occasions – from after-work drinks and weekend socialising to alfresco family dining. 

Winning publicans, Michael Pearson and Charlotte Salaman, said: "We take pride in our garden and a lot of hard work goes into making sure it's just as comfortable and welcoming as the rest of the pub." 

Outside The Wych Elm pub. (Photo: Fullers)

The two were presented with a plaque and a cash prize at an award ceremony hosted by last year's competition winners – Derek O'Brien and Ushma Patel at The Plough in Norwood Green. 

Mr Pearson and Ms Salaman said: "The Wych Elm's garden is a hidden gem – a leafy and floral sanctuary in the heart of Kingston.  

"It's great to have this recognition from Fuller's and special thanks go to Charlotte's mother, Liz, who is our Head Gardner and takes great care in looking after the garden. She is also delighted with this award." 

Iain Rippon, Fuller's Tenanted Director, said: "Congratulations to Michael and Charlotte – this is a well-deserved win. All of the finalists have fantastic gardens but The Wych Elm's garden is a truly beautiful outdoor space.

"Charlotte's mother, Liz, does a fantastic job as their Head Gardener – she should be proud. You can tell a lot of hard work goes into looking after the garden all year." 

Now in its second year, the internal competition saw four Fuller's tenanted pubs shortlisted who were each visited for a final round of judging.  

"The Glorious Gardens competition is a great opportunity for our pubs to showcase their outdoor spaces," Rippon said. 

He added: "Gardens are key trading areas year-round, so it's important we look after them. Visiting our pubs to judge the outdoor spaces is always a treat – it's great to see the imaginative ways publicans look after their gardens and make sure they're comfortable for customers come rain or shine."