Beer boffins CAMRA confirmed today that the Crown at Worthington has been named on a shortlist of just FOUR for the hugely prestigious National Pub of the Year 2009.

The rural real ale and good food mecca is already their reigning Regional Pub of the Year.

And a host of other citations already fight for space on the walls, including Local CAMRA's best pub for the past two years.

All of which is a quite astonishing transformation for the country Inn and hotel in Platt Lane.

Just five years ago its previous pub estate company owners decided The Crown had so little commercial future they successfully applied for planning permission to turn it into posh apartments.

Now it is in line for just about the biggest honour in the licensed trade.

The Crown will face two months of 'mystery shopper' style visits from judges checking for consistent excellence. They will announce their decision in mid-February.

The Crown is hailed in the real ale bible, 'The Good Beer Guide,' as a "country inn offering seven cask beers.

"High quality home-cooked food is served in the bar and conservatory restaurant, while a large decked sun terrace has patio heaters for cooler evenings. Mini beer festivals are held four times a year."

Award-winning Standish brewer Patsy Slevin said she was "delighted but not too surprised" with The Crown's success.

Full story in today's (Friday) Wigan Evening Post ...